I tried to ignore the burning in my throat and the trouble swallowing, but after months of taking Prilosec, I finally had to admit my reflux was not getting better. I saw a Gastroenterologist who suggested several tests and procedures. A negative H.Pylori blood test ruled out a bacterial infection in my stomach. A barium esophagram was done to check for abnormalities in my throat since I was having trouble swallowing. The results were normal. However, an upper endoscopy showed evidence of prolonged irritation and inflammation. The good news - there was no cancer growing down there. The bad news - there was no apparent cause or easy cure for my symptoms.

Of course, I just wanted a pill that would fix the problem, but teatment was not that simple. I tried to be a good patient and follow my doctor’s orders. I began eating smaller and more frequent meals. I avoided tight clothing. I didn’t lie down after I ate. I raised the head of my bed. I avoided chocolate, coffee and wine – I was not fun to be around! I also began taking Nexium, a potent acid suppressor, twice a day. I was certain all these efforts would pay off, and I would be cured. (more…)