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Alternative to PPIs?
Hi, all. I am 67 and have recently been diagnosed with Achalasia, metaplasic Barrett's Esophagus, and likely silent GERD. I am trying to avoid long-term use of PPIs and am wondering if others have gotten guidance on use of curcumin or other alternatives. Re curcumin, I'm especially looking g for guidance on dosage, timing of doses, etc. BTW, I have already made diet changes, lost 30 pounds, am using a mattress wedge at night, and have switched to sleeping on my left side. Thanks!
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Thank you for your message Missy. The doctors post-op diagnosis is pathologic acid reflux with moderate erosive esophagitis and peptic stricture. Pictures were taken, esophagus was dilated, and 3 biopsies were done. I haven't seen those results yet. Additionally, a 5cm hiatal hernia was found. He confirmed acid reflux and prescribed pantoprazole 40mg, 30 minutes before breakfast. He knew I wasn't happy with the 40mg but said that it could be lowered later on, but 40mg is long term. His notes indicted a previous side effect to omeprazole which I had tried many years ago.
I did not have the endoscopy done because I strongly suspected acid reflux. I had it done because I had two choking incidents about two weeks apart while eating chicken which really scared me. They were about 4 months ago and I haven't experienced a choking event since. I do use Tums as needed and it helps with infrequent acid. I stopped pantoprazole this morning and will call the doctor's office tomorrow (Monday).
I've read on here that people have had luck with alka seltzer without aspirin but I'm not sure how they use it. I think pepcid complete could be an option too. I haven't investigated Life Extension's Esophageal Guardian as an option either. I'm really a fan of homeopathic medicine.
I'm open to any advice. Thanks.
@dw9050
I have had pretty much the same diagnosis that you got from your Gastro. I've a long history of having EGD's and each one they dilate my esophagus. My gastro calls it a Schatzkis ring .
At the moment I don't have esophagitis , but I have had it in the past. And, I have a small hiatal hernia.
My gastro always recommended Famotidine 20 mg twice a day. And as long as I stayed on that, when I had repeat EGDs, my esophagitis is gone. But, I usually also have had to have schatzki ring dilated each time.
I subscribe to Consumer lab which tests these over the counter products for contamination etc and they also look at scientific studies so make sure these products really work, . There is no government testing of supplements for purity, and dosing. Often they find there is either less than the label or more. And they do from time to time find a less than pure product. And occasionally they will find something added that is not on the label. I always verify with them that a product is safe and does work and is not contaminated.
The active ingredient in Life extension eophageal Guardian is alginate and antacids in the form of calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, and potassium carbonate..
They like the Eophageal Guardian product and it is their top pick for an alginate with antacids. They are chewable tablets.
They caution people about avoiding capsules if they have trouble swallowing large capsules because alginates swell to form a floating barrier and that could be a problem if it is stuck in the espophagus.
And, if you are taking any prescription drugs, you must not take them at the same time you take the Esophageal guardian. You must separate them by 2 hours.