DEAR DR. GOTT:
My doctor is treating me with Prevacid for acid reflux but I feel no heartburn at all. I just cough up phlegm. Do you have a better idea?
DEAR READER:
There are numerous ways of dealing with this condition. You can place blocks under the legs at the head of your bed; modify your diet to avoid spicy foods that trigger an attack; or take an over-the-counter medication such as Prilosec or TUMS.
Perhaps as a first step, the blocks, coupled with the Prevacid you are presently taking, will reduce or eliminate the phlegm. If not and you remain dissatisfied, speak with your pharmacist for a suggestion on the best remedy he carries. Should that fail, return to your physician for a change to another prescription medication that might eliminate the cough. Also, you might consider a consultation with a gastroenterologist.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hiatal Hernia, Acid Reflux and Indigestion. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped, number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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