Hi,
From your query I assume you have
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is the inappropriate relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, resulting in the acid of the stomach coming up into the
esophagus.
Proton pump inhibitors (eg,
prevacid) are used to control the symptoms. The symptoms you prescribed are not the side effects of the medication.
I would recommend you to continue medication along with the life style modifications. You should try to lose weight if obese, avoid foods that increase acidity of your stomach such as alcohol,
nicotine, caffeine, chocolate, or any spicy food. Also avoid eating within 3 hours of bedtime. Sleep in a bed with a pillow elevating your head 8 inches. If all of these measures do not improve your condition you may require the additional test- a 24-hour pH monitoring to confirm the etiology. Also, (please) see your doctor if you have the disease present more than 5 years, any signs of anemia (easy fatigability, pallor),
weight loss, difficulty or pain with swallowing (dysphagia or
odynophagia). You should have endoscopic evaluation in such cases.
I hope I have answered your question. Please, feel free to ask me more in HCM if there is anything else you need to know.
Thank you,
Dr.Malik