Medication for acid reflux/GERD
I’ve been struggling with acid reflux/GERD for a few years and my doctor has just suggested I take a PPI proton pump inhibitor (such as pantoprazole). He was previously reluctant agree to this, despite recommendation by the gastroenterologist I saw.
I’m sure there have been discussions here related to taking PPI’s with bronchiectasis and Mac but wonder what others have experienced related to this?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the MAC & Bronchiectasis Support Group.
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@melinda561 Just a side note, her primary insisted she take a blood pressure pill prior to leaving his office. By the time she got home, she was lightheaded, dizzy and hypotensive. She documents her daily BP readings and before and after leaving any doctors office now and her cardiologist agrees with white coat syndrome.
@blueiris
Happy to share helps with GERD. We also found DGL (deglycerized licorice) soothes the esophagus and aids digestion. Do not use regular licorice as it increases BP.
Sadly, I was on PPIs for a few years. It can ruin your natural digestion permanently if you are on it for very long. I will not do it again. I use natural antacids and digestive enzymes now.
Document provided by my gastroenterologist about safety of PPI.
PPI Long Term Data on Safety (PPI-Long-Term-Data-on-Safety-1.pdf)
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1 ReactionPlease give information about what you are taking.
Name brands, etc.
I can't handle taking my proton pump inhibitor anymore.
Thank you
@sheila7a Does not matter the brand. I was on PPIs for years. Recently I just started taking a peppermint oil capsule before each meal.
I stongly suggest you sleep at an inclined angle. I have a wedge and I add pillows also.
Hello
I have a wedge.
You mentioned digestive enzymes just wondering what kind.
Brand name.
My daughter buys digestive enzymes with ox bile and a few other things.
Very expensive. I'm going to have to take a photo when I'm there for Thanksgiving.
Many years ago I found one with papaya and bromine(?).
Can't remember the brand name.
I use famotidine 20 MG 2 times a day. If I eat something that I think might cause extra acid, I’ll add 3 Tums. Hubby elevated the head of our bed 6” using blocks of wood, and I also stay upright for AT LEAST 2 hours (usually 3). There are a very few things I have to totally avoid, one being pepperoni. Sadly I’m not very obedient about avoiding foods, so I just omit the ones that cause the most trouble for me personally. All of this works so far.
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1 Reaction@nickraosr yes. My blood pressure was affected by the PPI’s. I have since dropped them to use zinc-L-carnosine developed in Japan. It controls and treats GERD, but the BP had not come down much, but it is stable now.
@sheila7a I take a variety of digestive enzymes and probiotics to help my food digest. The brand of enzyme is Doctor’s Best. I take Okra pepsin fiber as well. Research probiotics for digestive issues. Many are available and strains are available for this.