Why do GERD symptoms worsen despite taking medications?

Question

Hi doctor,

I was diagnosed with GERD. I have taken medicines like PPI, Sodium bicarbonate, and Geltazine. But it seems these medications do not work.

My heartburn symptoms occur frequently and are painful. I cannot sleep at night, and I cannot do my work effectively because of this. I am 32 years old, five feet 11 inches, and 165 pounds.

I have already started controlling my meals, but symptoms persist even with medications.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to the icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern. You have acid reflux disease.

For that,

Tablet Rabeprazole 20 mg OD for four weeks will be beneficial to you to get rid of symptoms.
While sleeping, keep your head elevated by putting on a pillow.
Go to sleep two hours after a meal.
Avoid excessive tea, coffee, chocolate, and stress.
Rule out the underlying cause for acid reflux, like Hiatus hernia, by barium meal x-ray or endoscopy.

However, please consult a gastroenterologist for examination, discuss with them, and start taking the medications with their consent.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.