Brief Answer:
Reflux disease with pharyngitis

Detailed Answer:
Hi Tlloftin,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your past medical history and present problems.

A cold and sore throat could be due to a viral flu as well as a bacterial infection and rarely, both can affect the patient causing no improvement on taking OTC cold medicines. You must allow 3 days to watch for any improvement. Speaking of the something stuck in your throat sensation, you might be having an attack of pharyngitis, if there is no improvement, please consult your GP for a short course of antibiotics.

Coming to the pain in your upper back while having coffee, when acid builds in your stomach and moves back up the esophagus, it can cause discomfort and pain between the shoulder blades. The pain radiates into other places, such as the upper back and everyone will appreciate pain in their back with acid reflux. Further this can depend on how severe the case of reflux is, how often you are getting it and how sensitive to pain you may be.

I would connect the pain while swallowing the medicines loosely with the acid formation. It might be just a one off occurrence. If it happens regularly, then your reflux (GERD) could be causing it. It would also be important to know if your are taking any pain killers regularly.

Hope your query is answered.
Should there be any further doubts, please feel free to ask.

Wishing you good health.
Dr Vivek

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Brief Answer:
Can take Tagamet in afternoon (just before lunch)

Detailed Answer:
Hi Tlloftin,
Thanks for writing with an update.

I understand you were suggested Tagamet (Cimetidine) 2x and Ranitidine (before dinner) to deal with your esophagitis. Presently you are on Ranitidine 300 mg and an OTC in the morning.

Regarding taking the OTC, I would like to share the following information with you:

If you are using nonprescription cimetidine (Tagamet) for self-treatment of acid indigestion or heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water as needed.
To prevent heartburn, take 1 tablet by mouth with a glass of water right before or up to 30 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn.
Do not take more than 2 tablets (Tagamet) in 24 hours unless directed by your doctor.

So you could add an OTC in the afternoon (just before lunch) and assess your situation.

If your esophagitis is worsening, please consult your doctor for a review of medications and they may change medicines if necessary.

Hope your query is answered.
Should there be any doubts, please feel free to ask.

Wishing you good health.
Dr Vivek

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