@littleonefmohio So sorry about your Gerd. But I raise my hand over here, cause I HAVE THE GERD FROM HELL.. Seriously Stabbing Dagger chest pains getting up in the morning. Now this is what works for me, so you need to see a GI Dr. to see if what I am prescribed works for you.

I have a prescription strength ordered by my Dr. for Omperazole DR 40 MG, 2 x a day, taken 30 minutes before I eat. This was the only thing that worked for me. And it took about 6 months before it actually started working, trying different anti acid medicines over 6 months too.. Some of them made me feel really nauseous and shaking that I tried before this worked.

Also, if you DO NOT CUT OUT Fried, Spicy, Fatty Foods it won't work. Cause I tried to still eat like there was nothing wrong, and it took longer to start working. Plus I have to sleep on a wedge pillow at night. If I lay flat, Jesus Mary and Joseph. I have tell ya, the Pain in the chest, is like I'm being attacked. It is actually paralyzing in the morning. Takes an hour to get out of bed.

Prior to taking the Omperazole, I ate Tums like a kid in a candy store.. at least 10 a day for several months
So far my brains are intact, at least I think so... LOL.. I been taking Omperazole now for 2 1/2 yrs and not eating tums like candy.
You really need to get an appointment with a GI Dr.