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Suffer From Acid Reflux And Sore Throat. Taking Pepcid. Pain In The Ear, Chest Congestion. Do I Have GERD?
I have been having acid reflux that causes a sore throat. I started taking pepcid and the reflux is better but now I have the feeling of something stuck in my throat and sometimes feel some pain in my ear. Also the back of my tongue appears to be inflamed and swollen with some visible nodules. I also sometimes feel as though food backs up or gets stuck behind my breast bone. Could I have a hernia or just GERD? Should I see an ENT or GI doc? I also have read that proton pump inhibitors are a better drug to treat GERD. Any advice?
Fri, 31 May 2013
Hi
It seems to be GERD. You may need more tests to rule out hernia. Treatment for GERD involves lifestyle modification along with medicines. Lifestyle modification involves reducing weight (if obese), taking small and frequent meals, elevating the head of bed, cessation of smoking and eating many hours before going to bed. Medicines are required if lifestyle does not work. Medicines include over the counter medicines. Other medicines that can be prescribed are H2 Blockers and Proton pump inhibitors.
See a gastroenterologist.
Dr Vaishalee
It seems to be GERD. You may need more tests to rule out hernia. Treatment for GERD involves lifestyle modification along with medicines. Lifestyle modification involves reducing weight (if obese), taking small and frequent meals, elevating the head of bed, cessation of smoking and eating many hours before going to bed. Medicines are required if lifestyle does not work. Medicines include over the counter medicines. Other medicines that can be prescribed are H2 Blockers and Proton pump inhibitors.
See a gastroenterologist.
Dr Vaishalee
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This appears to be due to Laryngo-Pharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPRD).This occurs when the acidic contents from the stomach reflux up the oesophagus to the throat and larynx.You need to see a ENT surgeon who can examine you and guide you.Avoiding coffee,alcohol,smoking,heavy fatty and spicy foods,small frequent meals with not lying down after eating will help prevent this.Your doctor may prescribe PPI inhibitors,sucralfate and anti -H pylori drugs as well as other medicines.
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