I was diagnosed with gastritis and hiatal hernia on february 2012. during that time i had black, tarry stools and was placed on omezaprole than changed to nexium. my upper abdomen area pains or becoming more severe and comes and goes. it wakes me up at

Recheck with your DR: This may be an ulcer that is not healing gallstones.

GE reflux: From the information your ge reflux causing erosions in in the esophagus from the acid in your stomach caused bleeding ( tarry stool ) , besides medications, all the precautions your doctor told you to do, then endoscopy to see any ulcers in lower esophageal area, if biopsy shows atypia ( barrett's ulcer ) then you need anti reflux surgery.

Abdominal pains: Your pains may be an indication of persistent refractory ulcer disease or of severe reflux. Were you previously diagnosed with helicobacter pylori? I would suggest a follow-up visit with your gastroenterologist.