Light yellow/ochre coloured stools, safety of long term Prilosec

Posted By Louellen on October 03, 1998 at 17:41:54:







I have been diagnosed with a hiatus hernia and esophagial irritation
due to the reflux. I've been taking Tums recently as I've gone off
of the Prilosec. I've been having light yellow/ochre coloured stools
Could this be the result of the Tums or something more serious. My
urine colour is a normal yellow to darker yellow (when I don't drink
enough fluids). I'm afraid to go back on the Prilosec as I've been on
20mg/day for 8 months and had read that long term use of Prilosec
may cause colon tumors and I developed a racing heart after 7 1/2 months
of Prilosec usage. My doctor says that the racing heart is NOT due
to the Prilosec, but I'm terrified of trying it again and have therefore
tried to stick to a very bland, non-fat diet and Tums when I need them.
I am lactose intolerant and therefore can use the calcium anyways.
I also have IBS (mostly diarehia) and find that I'm much better on a lower
fibre diet and eat mostly carbohydrates, well cooked vegetables, lean protein
such as fish and chicken, but can't tolerate fruits.  Should I be concerned
about the light yellow coloured stools, and should I be concerned about long
term usage of Prilosec? Please answer as I'm confused and worried.