Hi Cindy,

I understand your concerns as I was really suffering with my hernia. After much research, many endoscopies, discussions with my gastroenterologist along with talking to two people who had the surgery I decided not to have the surgery. The people who had the surgery had some complications and still needed medication. My gastroenterologist confirmed this as well. So I set out to find a way to reduce my symptoms:
1-No drinking fluids after 6pm/food as well-Can have small sips of tea or water
2.-Purchased a bed with a mattress that elevates so I am in a slightly semi Fowler position. You eventually get use to sleeping with the elevation
3.-Lost 10 lbs.
4.-Most important I discovered through research that gaviscon extra strength helped my gerd 100 percent. 2 tabs before bedtime with a glass of water and my symptoms improved greatly. Since gaviscon has an aluminum component I explored ordering Canadian gaviscon which does not have aluminum. I received it and it works very well with few to no side effects except a dry mouth in the a.m.
I was so relieved not to have to take Prilosec which gave me horrible side effects. I wished I was given this medication from the get go but no one ever prescribed it or discussed it. While I realize some people need the surgery I have been able to keep my symptoms at bay with the Gaviscon. I am careful not to overdue what I eat but honestly my diet is not that restrictive. I am hoping I can continue in this pattern as my gerd has improved drastically. I am glad I set about exploring options other then surgery or continuing on omeprazole. I am hoping I can keep this regimen without the need for medicine/surgery other then the Canadian Gaviscon. Intermittent fasting is also helpful. There are many ways to go about this but I usually have coffee in the am and don’t eat until 12:30 and stop all food intake after 6pm. Good-luck to you….Ellen