Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

[gja1000]

Originally Posted by judy

I also have GERD. I have changed my diet, but can still have coffee, tomatoes, chocolate, etc. I limit myself to two cups of coffee/day now. I discovered that no sweeteners in the coffee help. (???) I think everybody's foods to avoid differ. I have been taking nexium for years for it.

Judy, I am a bit concerned that you have been taking Nexium for years. Proton Pump Inhibitors like Nexium were initially meant for short term use, about 1 year. The literature does not say specifically how long to take them, but the research does show some adverse affects with long term use. I've copied something from the drug.com site:

People who take proton pump inhibitors such as esomeprazole may be more likely to fracture their wrists, hips, or spine than people who do not take one of these medications. The risk is highest in people who take high doses of one of these medications or take them for one year or longer. The risk may also be higher in people who are 50 years of age or older. Talk to your doctor about the risk of taking esomeprazole.

You can take the H2 inhibitors (Zantac 150, Tagamet, and Pepcid AC - the literature says Zantac 150 is the best), on a long term basis. I think some of the low dose (over the counter) drugs like Prilosec are OK to take on a longer term basis.