High Acid Level

  I seem to have a very high acid level in my system.  Whenever I have a few drinks (alcoholic) my saliva seems to become acidic and makes the drink seem to curdle/go off.  I get some relief from antacids but they are only temporary.  I cant eat anything that has a naturally high acid level ie pineapple/tomato as it makes my tounge go 'funny'.  Also any colour lipstick goes bright red eventually.  I had a lot of gastro as a child.
  Any suggestions would be great.
Dear Eliza,
You describe the symptoms associate with gastroesophageal reflux disease. A variety of dietary and lifestyle modifications can help relieve some of your symptoms. These are called anti-reflux measures. In addition medications such as histamine receptor antagonists (such as cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine, nizatidine) available over the counter and by prescription may help you. If these are not helpful you may need to see your doctor for further evaluation and stronger acid suppressing medications.
The lifestyle modifications that are considered helpful in patients with hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux are called anti-reflux measures. Foods that can decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure should be avoided. Those foods include: coffee, tea, cola beverages (with and without caffeine), citrus drinks, fatty foods, spicy foods, onions, peppermint and chocolate. Medications such as aspirin or non-steroidal inflammatory agents (for example: ibuprofen, naproxen etc.) can be irritating to the stomach or esophagus. Other medications that decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure are theophylline and albuterol
(medicine for asthma) and calcium channel blockers (such as dilitiazem, nifedipine for high blood pressure and angina). It is important for you to review the list of your medications with your doctor. Other helpful lifestyle changes include: elevating the head of your bed on 4-6 inch cinderblocks or using a wedge under the mattress; not eating at least 3-4 hours before bedtime; eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding smoking and alcohol. I hope you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you wish to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux, anti-reflux measures