How to treat a long standing case of gastroesophageal reflux disorder?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Let me go through the laboratory reports (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) and reply to you after that. Please let me know what symptoms your mom is having at present and detail about the symptoms. I have noted her history of diabetes, hypertension, and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder).

Thanks and take care.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

About the laboratory reports, below are the findings.

1. CBC (complete blood count) is normal with normal DLC (differential leukocyte count).

2. Magnesium level is normal and cardiac profile is also normal.

3. Renal function test is normal except for high random glucose level. This means her diabetes is not controlled with medication.

4. Urine routine and microscopic examination are normal except urine ketone trace positive but nothing to worry about.

The comprehensive report is normal except for high random glucose levels. I would suggest an HbA1C (hemoglobin A1C) test to know about adequate glycemic control and adjustment of the medications for diabetes.

Some questions that I would like to know about are listed below.

1. Is there a heartburn sensation after food?

2. Any regurgitation of food?

3. Is any acid reflux leading burning sensation in the food pipe?

4. For how long hoarseness of the voice is present?

5. Did she have any similar symptoms in the past?

6. Which medication is your mother taking for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), diabetes, and hypertension?

Your symptoms mentioned in the query could be due to GERD or LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflux). Please answer all the above questions to guide your treatment regarding it.

I hope this helps.

Thanks and take care.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

The cause of the hoarseness of the voice is the acid reflux from the food pipe to the upper throat level. All the above symptoms are due to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder). Do not worry about it. It is manageable with lifestyle modification and medication for GERD.

I would suggest the following measures.

1. Take or continue the tablet Nexium 20mg. It contains Esomeprazole as an active ingredient and is one of the best medications for acid suppression. Take this tablet once a day on an empty stomach for around an hour before food.

2. Take Antacid syrup two teaspoons twice or thrice daily for acute relief in the symptoms of heartburn and food regurgitation. Please do not take it continuously, mainly during acute symptoms.

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

3. Avoid spicy and oily foods.

4. Avoid tea or coffee.

5. Take a meal around one hour before bed to avoid reflux of stomach content.

6. Maintain adequate hydration.

7. If needed upper endoscopy can be done to know about the laxity of the lower esophageal sphincter and any other changes in the lower esophagus.

Please change the dietary food habits and lifestyle modifications to control GERD symptoms effectively.

Please follow up if you have any further related queries about it.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Following foods to be avoided if possible to prevent symptoms of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder).

1. All carbonated beverages.

2. Tea made with milk and tea leaves, coffee.

3. Dark chocolates.

4. Citrus fruits like oranges.

5. Tomato juices.

Ginger helps in reducing reflux.

Please follow up if you have any further related queries about it.

I hope this helps.

Thanks and take care.