DEAR DR. GOTT:
I have GERD and an inflamed esophagus which I was told needs to be watched. I take one Prilosec daily but still have a sour taste in my mouth. I watch my diet, don’t eat spices, citrus, desserts, or greasy food. What else can I do?
DEAR READER:
Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is often due to a weakness of the hiatal sphincter in the diaphragm that separates the stomach from the lungs. This weakness can cause a hernia in which the stomach actually slips through into the esophagus. This also allows for backwash of stomach juices which can cause pain, burning, stinging and sourness.
If your Prilosec is not working, return to your gastroenterologist who can further advise you about other medications and lifestyle modifications that may be beneficial.
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