cramping

  Hi I was wondering if cramping normally accompanies 'reflux'? I am taking Losec which seems to help with the reflux,  burning and heartburn but nothing seems to help the cramping.  It feels like menstual cramps so that was the direction my Dr first took but all is fine in that area, so he says it may be from the excessive acid production, but the cramps are here daily and I am unable to find any relief.....any suggestions?
  Thanks
Dear Beth,
I'm glad that omeperazole (Prilosec) has helped some of your symptoms. Did the cramping start after you started the drug? I don't have a clear explanation for this, but, in my clinical practice, I have had several patients complain of non-specific cramping while on this medication. You could try switching to another drug or treat the cramping as irritable bowel syndrome (especially if associated with eating and relieved with a bowel movement) and increase the fiber in your diet. An easy way to get your daily fiber requirement is to try FIBER ONE cereal 2 oz. daily. 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: omeperazole (Prilosec), irritable bowel syndrome