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Navia, I have had GERD for years. It is pretty much under control with my PPI-at least no burning and I have all the things that are taught to prevent it-loose fitting clothes, dont bend over after eating, stop eating 4 hours before going to bed, etc. All help-- But then during the height of Covid shut down, I developed TMD-Temperal Mandibular Dysfunction. ? from grinding my teeth due to anxiety. After treatment and improving. I developed cough, thick mucous, raspy voice,sensitive throat, and constant clearing. My PC thought it was my sinuses, but ENT said GI. So I have had every GI test in the book, but nobody has an answer. I have decided to see an Allergist next. One thing that has helped a bit is taking over the counter meds for mucous(guaifenesin) Drink a lot of water. Not a doctor--I am just desperate. Goodluck!
Replies to "Navia, I have had GERD for years. It is pretty much under control with my PPI-at..."
I think my GERD initially started when my temporomandibular joint (jaw) was out of place. I had a bite plate which helped it get back into place, but since then I cannot chew things as thoroughly as previously (such as popcorn or raw oats and the like). So, I can suggest for you to see if your jaw is now properly in place (probably best to go to a jaw specialist, or a dentist if that's not possible). Make sure to chew your food thoroughly. Not doing so can cause GI problems, including GERD, and the symptoms you specify can all be caused by acid reflux. If this makes sense in your case, it would be helpful to eat softer foods, chew longer, etc. and see about your jaw alignment.
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Hi Rosemary
Thank you for replying. Yes, I do all the things that you describe but they don't seem to help. Sometimes I wonder if I have been misdiagnosed. A friend is similar to me and they found that he has a bacterial infection in his lungs and he is having to see specialists about this. Have they tested your sputum? I am thinking of doing that to make sure. I saw an allergist but they said I am not allergic. For some years I had a dry cough with clearing my throat and then during Covid it changed and was no longer dry. I also lost a lot of my hearing and it happened overnight. Sometimes I wonder if Covid made me worse. I was very sick in the November before Covid was recognised and I am suspicious that it might have been the virus. I don't think they know when it really started. My friend with a similar cough is going to see someone at the Jewish hospital in Denver. If not probably Mayo. I will try the cough syrup you recommend.
I also have Discoid Lupus which affects my hair and scalp. It's very itchy and inflamed and I have to take Plaquenil for that. I don't think the 2 problems are connected but sometimes I wonder.
Good luck and best wishes
Jennifer