I have had a few throat problems for 2 months, need help.

[TerryJoe]

Hello, I am 19 years old. I do use smokeless tobacco. But never smoked. For the last 2 months I have had odd problems. It first started with trouble swallowing and a scratchy feeling in my throat. My doctor diagnosed me with GERD And gave me Nexium. Over time that made it easier to swallow but the pain got worse. Then I noticed I had Oral Thrush, I got a different medicine which cleared the Thrush but now my tougne is a brownish colour? Anyways, after a week of Nexium my ears started ringing constantly and at night my face would flush bad, is this a side effect of Nexium or is it something to be concerned about? Now my throat overall feels better but my ears are still ringing and when I drink soda or eat something salty it does not sit well with my stomach or throat. Plus I feel the need to clear my throat a lot. Some days are better than others. But I am hoping I can get some advice. I have an appointment with a specialist in January, But I am honestly scared since I do use snuff. Can somebody give me some insight if this is really GERD? I feel as if when I stress and overthink about my symptoms they become worse, is that possible too? Thank you.

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the GERD forum.

Soda and carbonated beverages will trigger reflux so you will need to avoid it for now.....and once you have things under control you may be able to have some in moderation. I also suggest you stop the smokeless tobacco....either way you take in tobacco it reduces the saliva's ability to break down foods which is the start of the digestive process.

Yes, stress can contribute to your symptoms flaring. You will need to modify dieet and lifestyle in order to feel better.