Reflux Esophagus?Divertiulitis

  Refux disease (GERD). Are there any special things I should be
  aware of as far as foods to watch out for,or any other special
  problems with having these two medical conditions together?
    I was also born with Klippel-Feil syndrome which I have been
  told has nothing to do with either of these conditions?
Dear Mary,
Gastroesophageal reflux disease and diverticular disease are both fairly common conditions that may coexist.The following are dietary modifications recommended for each of these conditions.
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.
In painful diverticulosis the general recommended diet is to increase fiber (even though this remains unproven). In diverticulitis, during the acute stage, bowel rest and antibiotics are recommended. In very mild cases fat free fluids and antibiotics can be given. As the acute attack improves, low residue solid foods are recommended. An example of a residue restricted diet meal could include the following dinner:
Strained tomato juice (1/2 cup)
Broiled skinless chicken breast (3 oz)
White rice (1/2 cup)
Cooked spinach (1/2 cup)
White roll (1)
Margarine (2 tsp)
Low fat-frozen yogurt (1/2 cup)
Applesauce (1/2 cup)
Coffee/tea
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 would like 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: diverticulosis, diverticulitis, dietary recommendations, anti-reflux measures