Post-Gallbladder Removal Stomach Pain: Understanding Esophagitis

Question
Three weeks ago I had my gall bladder removed. Today I still have a knawing pain in the center of my stomach between my top two rib bones. When I saw my dr. today she thought I may have esophagitus? I was told to see a GI and made an appt for the first week in June. I have not been able to find a decription of this illness. Do you know what it is and is it very serious
Thank you!
Kelly  

Answer
Hi Kelly,
It is an inflammation of the esophagus from reflux disease. It is treatable but left untreated it can be serious. You should also be tested for H. Pylori. It is a bacterium that resides in the stomach that can cause ulcer disease. It is also treatable. In the mean time, I'd try over-the-counter Prilosec and see if the symptoms go away. That will tell you a lot.