Hyper Acidity

Please could you tell me if using OTC Unisom (12mgs Doxylamine Succinate) to help sleep (have severe insomnia for decades now) - could this lead to the severe hyper acidity I have? I take Nexium 40mg's twice a day, sometimes even three but it does not seem to help. Gastro-scope showed no signs of an ulcer just a very severe inflammation.

Family Dr says Unisom or other anti-histamines cannot cause gastric problems. I read differently on the internet and am very confused now.

Will greatly value your opinion.

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi LadyLeo,

1. Inflammation itself can cause symptoms of hyperacidity and there need not be an ulcer in all cases

2. Antihistamines can cause  abdominal discomfort.But it is very rare.

Stop Doxylamine Succinate and see whether you find improvement with Nexium. If so, you can discuss with your doctor for other treatment options for insomnia.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.

[DiamondMair]

Is there a surgery I can ask my primary care physician about, for removing the most-acid producing areas of the esophagus/stomach?  
The reason I ask is, when we're between pay periods, & I can't afford AciPhex, the discomfort is constant, the pain occurs frequently enough that I have trouble falling asleep, etc.  I just figure if there's a surgical procedure {maybe performed like an esophagogastroduodenoscopy PLUS}, THAT might be more sensible than the rest of my life on AciPhex or whatever the next new drug is .........................
Thank you
Diamond Mair

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi DiamondMair,
Medical treatment is better than surgical treatment for your ailment.
Removing acid producing areas may cause serious short and long term complications.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.