Side effects of Nexium

[wheatonmom]

Has anyone experienced any side effects on Nexium?  I feel like it is making me more nasueas and queasy than Prevacid.  I was taking 40 mg of Nexium daily and have just switched to 30 mg daily of Prevacid.

[MJ96]

I have taken nexium and had to stop becasue it caused bad headaches and some vision imparment. But no nasuea that I can remember.

[PennKen]

I tried Nexium...Couldn't tolerate it...Stomach pains...even gave me minor chest pains...Previcid...I had no luck with at all...It worked  for maybe two days...I'm on Protonix now and even though its not perfect its better for me than the other two..Protonix gives me a slight headache but I can deal with that as long as I can eat..

[INALOTOFPAIN]

....................Had a 15 day free supply, decided to go back to priolesec. No help whatsoever.

[Concerned lady]

Acid blockers can cause MALABSORPTION problems, where no Vitamin B 12 (etc.) can be absorbed. This can cause NERVE DAMAGE (called "peripheral neuropathy"), with symptoms of numbness, pain, tingling, pins & needles, weird sensations, muscle weakness, etc.

But, there ARE OTHER METHODS to fight gastric reflux, and these other methods do NOT include acid blockers.

I'm going to do a "cut & paste" of Some GASTRIC REFLUX TIPS without acid blockers. My husband and I use these "tips" every day, and have never taken a dangerous acid blocker, like Nexium.

I apologize in advance, for the lengthiness of this posting.

***************************************

Some GASTRIC REFLUX TIPS (without acid blockers):

GER=Gastro-Esophageal Reflux. (Gastro=stomach. Esophagus=food tube.)

LPR= Laryngeal-Pharyngeal Reflux. (Larynx=voice box, containing the 2 vocal cords. Pharynx=throat, above the larynx. The larynx is above the trachea/windpipe.)

Reflux=acidic or alkaline stomach material that backs up into the esophagus (food tube), causing any of these problems: VCD attacks, cough, voice problems, asthma, globus (feeling of lump in throat), constant need to clear throat, worsening of sinus condition, sore throat, pre-cancerous conditions of throat &/or esophagus, etc.

SOME GER/LPR CONTROL THINGS WE DO, that we learned from the excellent book: STOMACH AILMENTS AND DIGESTIVE DISTURBANCES, by Michael T. Murray, N.D. See page 9, References, in my website: http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com   and, also see GER/LPR info on page 5, and on LINKS page.

PLEASE READ THIS GREAT BOOK. It may be available, on-line, from Michael T. Murray’s website.

Some of the following we learned from people &/or other books, &/or other good websites about voice, GER, etc.

(1) DGL (De-Glycyrrhizinated Licorice) is one of our main methods of controlling the GER/LPR. We use Enzymatic Therapy brand, shortly before meals. The DGL does NOT cause high blood pressure, and does NOT cause fluid retention/edema, because the bad (steroidal) part of whole/crude licorice has been removed, leaving the DGL. DGL is available at most health food stores, and at good pharmacies.
  
The DGL tablet(s) must be chewed, to mix with saliva, to be effective. If it is too dry, one could mash/crush it and mix with a little water, and then chew it up. Chew tablet(s) for a minute or so, to thoroughly mix with saliva, shortly before EVERY meal, and if necessary, between meals (Read label directions).
  
The DGL seems to not only promote healing of throat, esophagus and stomach, but also seems to help prevent OUR reflux.(resulting in no more globus/lump in throat sensation, no more constant throat clearing, excess mucous, excess phlegm, no more NIGHT-TIME VCD attacks, no more laryngitis, etc. for us)

We like the taste of the DGL CHEWABLE tablets, but for those who hate the taste, try the chocolate flavored kind, without any mint. (Mint—in all forms, can cause gastric reflux episodes. AVOID MINT!!). If someone can't tolerate the taste, the DGL chewable tablet could be mashed/crushed, and mixed with a tiny bit of organic banana, and then this mixture could be thoroughly chewed up (to mix well with saliva).

(2) We use Thayers brand of SLIPPERY ELM Throat Lozenges when we feel the need. (Soothing, coating, healing, nourishing). Slippery Elm (inner bark from a tree) also comes in teabag form, or in bulk, etc. as an herbal supplement.

(3) We drink the occasional small glass of CARROT JUICE (organic, fresh) which soothes, coats, heals the digestive tract, is nourishing, and stimulates the immune system, with beta-carotene, soothing and coating PECTIN (a type of fiber), and other good nutrients. (Carrot soup, cooked carrots are also good. Beta-carotene is heat resistant.) (Beta-carotene later is turned into Vitamin A inside us). Don’t overdo. If your skin turns orange, cut back on the carrot juice. Avoid beta-carotene pills—too potent.

(4) We tried elevating the head of the bed a few inches, by putting 6 inch to 8 inch BLOCKS, ON THE FLOOR, under the head end of the bed. This creates a slant (tilt), where one’s head is 6 to 8 inches higher than the feet. This helps some people, but not all people. (Check with a pediatric Gastro-enterologist, about raising the head end of a bed of a child, or a crib of an infant). Also, see (16) about a special GERD PILLOW, for adults.

(5) We try NOT TO BEND OVER too often, and we try to AVOID STRAINING (Valsalva maneuver). We AVOID LIFTING HEAVY objects. (No weight lifting!) (at least until after no more reflux symptoms for 3 months).

(a) If CONSTIPATION is causing any straining, see Ref.15,18,23,24,25 on page 9 for ideas about gently treating constipation, including eating whole grains, not white (de-natured ones), etc.  For us, exercise, increased water intake, acidophilus/bifidus, digestive enzymes, avoiding junk food, improved diet, chewing slowly (takes will power!), eating when not under stress or angry, etc., all are helpful.

(6) NO MORE TIGHT pants, belt, corset,--AVOID TIGHT CLOTHING etc.

(7) We try to not eat too much junk food. Some people avoid acidic  food, while others need to eat acidic food, if their stomach is not producing any (or enough) acid. (It is good to avoid acid, if one has an ulcer.) These gastric reflux tips methods often can help to heal ulcers. Some people need betaine hydrochloride supplements, which becomes HCl/hydrochloric acid, or, some use vinegar (acetic acid) in salads, or mixed with water, while others need to avoid eating excess acid. Each person is unique. We avoid all artificial sweeteners. Anyone with diabetes might want to look at the excellent book Reversing Diabetes, by Dr. Julian Whittaker, M.D..

Diet soda pop contains the harmful artificial sweetener Aspartame (Equal/Nutrasweet), which can cause WEIGHT GAIN, HEADACHES, UPSET STOMACH, BLURRED VISION, BLINDNESS, TWITCHING, SEIZURES, BRAIN TUMORS, HYPERACTIVITY, MOOD SWINGS, ETC., and soda pop often has strong acids, plus other harmful artificial ingredients. Plain water, gentle herb teas, certain fruit juices, brown rice-milk, etc. are healthier substitutes for soda pops.

We try to avoid all artificial ingredients, including fake fats (like Olean, Olestra, etc.), because these can destroy the digestive system, and prevent absorption of vital nutrients, such as fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from foods. These fake fats also prevent digestion and absorption of needed fats & oils, used to repair myelin nerve cell sheaths (made of fatty material, mostly cholesterol). Hormones are also made of mostly cholesterol.

(8)  We try to drink more water, to prevent chronic dehydration. We like hard (nicely mineralized) well or spring water.
We do not drink distilled water (soft water, no minerals), because it can leach minerals out of our bones, possibly contributing  to osteoporosis. (See Ref.18,23, on page 9.) We avoid water softeners (chemicals) because they can be toxic, and because good minerals help keep us healthy. People with KIDNEY PROBLEMS &/or GLAUCOMA, etc. should ask their docs how much water is safe to drink, since too much water can be dangerous for them! (But, dehydration can cause problems also.)

(9) We use ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS ( edible beneficial bacteria which keep bad YEASTS away, such as Candida Albicans, formerly called Monilia). ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS also can eat or control some bad bacteria, and some viruses. The acidophilus/bifidus are also called PRO-BIOTICS and are beneficial intestinal flora (mainly for the large intestine). We keep the jars refrigerated, but not too cold. (See Ref.14,15,23,24,25, on page 9).

Acidophilus/bifidus can re-populate the large intestine, with good bacteria, after antibiotics &/or steroids, etc. have killed off these good bacteria! Some of us have to continue eating the acidophilus/bifidus (daily, or from time to time), but the results seem worth the effort to us.

Yogurt and buttermilk contain similar beneficial bacteria, but are milk products, so see (11) below about milk products.

(10) We use DIGESTIVE ENZYMES. My husband likes Acid-Ease by Prevail, which contains Slippery Elm (inner bark), Marshmallow Root, Gamma-Oryzanol (from Rice Bran Oil), and the plant enzymes Amylase (digests starch), Lipase II (digests fat), and Cellulase I (digests cellulose from plant cell walls). The Acid-Ease does not contain Protease, which can be very irritating to ulcer/GER folks.

The Acid-Ease is NOT an acid blocker. It is not an antacid. It soothes, coats, nourishes, and promotes healing. Its enzymes help with leaky gut syndrome.

   I use Total Enzymes (which does have Protease, a protein digesting enzyme) by Nutri-West, a company that sells only to health practitioners (Chiropracters, Physicians, and others). One could ask their physician to order, at cost, for them, by having physician call 1-307-358-5066.

   Digestive enzymes are NOT FOR EVERYBODY.

(11)  My husband has found that AVOIDING MILK PRODUCTS helps him feel less congested, with less mucous in throat. Milk and milk products can cause gastric reflux episodes. Brown-Rice Milk (look for gluten-free) can substitute for milk (but not for babies!).

Gluten is in wheat, rye, oats, barley, & buckwheat. Read labels to avoid hidden gluten, in some soy sauces, gravies, grain alcohols, beer (barley malt), etc. People with Celiac Disease need to avoid all foods containing gluten. BROWN RICE (organic) is gluten-free. Corn is gluten free, but is very allergenic (allergy causing), so avoid corn. Avoid millet, because there is disagreement about whether millet is safe or not, for Celiac patients.

MILK MAY CAUSE MORE ACID to be produced, IN THE STOMACH.

I occasionally eat milk products, like yogurt, cheese, whipped cream, or my ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS, which is mixed with goat milk powder. So, at these times, I take LACTASE ENZYMES, to digest (break down into easily absorbed small molecules) the milk-sugar called LACTOSE. Many people (due to heredity &/or disease) have Lactose intolerance, where one’s small intestine does not secrete the lactase enzyme. Result is that the milk-sugar (lactose) travels further down the small intestine than it should. Then, bad bacteria eat the lactose, giving off lots of gas (a by-product of the digestion of bad bacteria), and this causes folks to get bloated, gassy, have diarrhea, and cramping. I use Lactaid” brand lactase enzymes, and it works for me. Ordering direct from them can save money.

(12) Using the above methods has almost completely freed my husband of needing to use Tums, and seems to be nicely controlling his and my GER/LPR. We have never used acid blockers.

ACID BLOCKERS CAN HAVE DANGEROUS SIDE EFFECTS: Some examples are:

Acid must be present in the stomach, in order for the stomach to make a substance called Intrinsic Factor. Intrinsic factor must be present with Vitamin B 12, in the duodenum (first part of the small intestine), for absorption of Vitamin B 12 to happen.

Acid blockers therefore prevent absorption of Vitamin B 12. Malabsorption (lack of absorption) of Vitamin B 12, causes NERVE DAMAGE (pain, numbness, pins & needles sensation, etc.) in the peripheral nerves (outside the brain & spinal cord). This is called PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY. For details about this problem, see the Peripheral Neuropathy forum at http://www.braintalk.org

If Vitamin B 12 continues to NOT be absorbed, eventually there can be NERVE DAMAGE to the Central nervous system (brain & spinal cord).

ALSO, the minerals calcium, iron, zinc, other minerals, and important trace minerals, etc. cannot be properly absorbed, when there is no acid in the stomach (due to acid blockers, etc.).

AND, protein does not get properly digested (broken down--eventually into amino acids), in the stomach, when there is no acid in the stomach.

Doctors and pharmacists can advise about tapering down (weaning) schedules (when and if safe) for the acid blockers. Some acid blockers, when stopped too quickly, can cause rebound acid secretion in the stomach, resulting in excess hydrochloric acid secretion.

ALSO, SOME FORMS OF REFLUX ARE NOT ACID REFLUX, but are ALKALINE REFLUX, (bile is alkaline). Besides refluxed stomach acid (HCl/hydrochloric acid), Pepsin (an acidic proteolytic/protein digesting, enzyme) & bile (alkaline) can irritate & damage: the esophagus, throat, vocal cords, & lungs.

(13) Do not drink ICY COLD DRINKS, and AVOID VERY HOT DRINKS. Use room temperature drinks, or slightly cool, or warm, but not ultra-hot. Extremely cold or hot liquids can irritate the stomach, which is bad for ulcers &/or gastric reflux.

(14) Ask physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, etc. if they know any safe adjustments that might lessen GER/LPR, if you wish.

(15) Read (by Dr. James A. Koufman) PATIENT INFORMATION SHEET ON REFLUX by Center for Voice Disorders of Wake Forest University. Here’s a link:  http://www.bgsm.edu/voice/pt_info.html  Dr. Koufman was a pioneer in showing the connection between stomach reflux (can be acid reflux OR alkaline reflux) and breathing problems!

(16) Some have found a special (large) GERD pillow helpful for preventing GERD episodes while sleeping and while lying down. Here is a link to the Prop up pillow website:  http://www.propuppillow.com

(17) Avoid harmful chemical air pollution, which can aggravate gastric reflux. See page 5 of VCD website for more about this.

(18) Using the above methods, in addition to the SINUS SURVIVAL tips, has helped us to prevent VCD attacks, in us.

(19) Please check with your doctor, in advance, to be sure that it is OK for you to try these tips, in your particular case. Also, please get monitored by your doctor, to be sure that no more damage to the throat, esophagus, stomach, vocal cords, lungs, etc. is happening, from possible SILENT gastric reflux.

(20) If needed, see a good holistic NUTRITIONIST for advice on greatly improving the nutritious quality of one's diet.

Pregnant or nursing ladies should check with their doctors, before trying any of these tips.

Avoid any herbs, foods, etc. that you may be allergic to.

Check with your doctor and pharmacist, to be sure that there would be no harmful interactions between any of your medications, diet that you may be on, and any herbs, foods, etc. mentioned in these tips.

Check with your doctor, to be sure that these tips would not interact badly with any medical condition you may have.

These tips help my husband and me (adults). Some of these tips may be OK for children, and others may not be OK for children. Check with your doctor! Babies with gastric reflux need DIFFERENT treatments, not these tips (except for raising the head end of the crib, if your doctor says it is OK to do this, etc.). Check with your doctor!

Good luck to all!

Sincerely, Concerned lady

http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com

[needabreak]

Good Tips, Concerned Lady!!!     Not to scare anyone, but I have been taking Prevacid (started out with Aciphex -- felt awful on it) for around 5 wks, off and then on, and have several side effects from it.  READ the insert and exactly what side effects it can cause like I did.  I found that my dry eyes, eye pain, hair loss, stomach pain, etc. are because of IT!!  It scares me enough to try getting off the Prevacid and using the natural tips from Concerned Lady (trust me, what she says, I've already read from other sources.  She's not making it up).  I'm in the process of weaning from the Prevacid and using the DGL, etc. AND, I must say, unless I have eaten something I shouldn't have, I feel pretty darn good right now....but, I, too, am a "little" skeptical, but I'm not about to give up yet!  So far, so good.  Also, I've found that stress DOES play a big role in my reflux problem...so have to try to understand and avoid that.  Good luck to all of you on the PPI's.          Needabreak  (How are you doing, "feelbetter"?

[Addie]

I have been on Achifex, prevacid, prilosec and Nexium.  Achifex was the worst followed by Prilosec.  I complained to the gastro doc about the side effects of Achifex and prilosec. He informed me that in all of his 22 years of being a gastro do, I was the ONLY ONE that ever complained about side effects of a PPI.  Needless to say, i switched doctors.  He was a real loser.

I am going to take some of the advice here.  I have a stricture in the espohagus that the bad doc said he ballooned.  he did not. It was there one month later via a barium swallow.  i have to have another EGD to have this ballooned by a better doctor.

I suffer terribly when I have red sauce and choclate. I also have the coughing gerd and larnyx problems.  I do not want surgery and really hate the PPI's.  I think diet is a big factor and I know I do feel better at night with the bed elevated 6".

[karie]

I too was told by the doctor that it was rare to find a patient who had side-effects to Prevacid: racing heart,insomnia, dry mouth. Nexium: diareha,head-ache, stomach pain, dizziness: Tried 6 weeks. Zantac: racing heart, nervousness and no help with heartburn, If any helped me to gain the weight back and eat again then I would have tried longer. On DGL for 11 days now , Can't eat new foods yet, Still have bad days, But hoping to give it time.
Did you loose weight or find certain foodds aggrevate more?
What does blue finger nails mean? Thinking too much Vit A or not enough ? The tummy , heartburn dilema continues..........thanks

[Addie]

I have not lost a pound.  I am still 15 lbs overweight. I can starve myself for 3 days and not lose anything.  I hope you are elevating the head of the bed.  This really helps and keeps the acid out of the esop, larnyx and throat.  We need to do everything to heal the espohagus that is being irritated by
the reflux.

Of all the vitamins I have taken and read about I heard (not a doctor) that one can become toxic on Vitamin A if taking too much. You may want to ask your doctor on this and see if there is a relationship to your blue fingernails.  I get a vitamin B12 shot every month.  Getting a B12 serum count is important becuz low B12 can cause stomach problems among other things.  I believe the normal range for B12 is between 200-900?  (in that range, I believe).  If one is below 200 to 150 it is in a low stage and if one is below 150, it is really low.  My first test was 158.  The doc was not happy with that reading.  My doctor wants my low not to go below 300.  You may want to ask your doctor about this also.  it is a simple blood test and he may also want to check other things to see about your nails.

Good Luck

Lisa

[dock]

I have been taking nexium 2 times a day for about 2 months now, luckily with no side effects to speak of, unfortunately I also have the cough, it drives me nuts and needless to say I do not sleep well from it unless I take the prescription cough medicine. I do find diet and not eating or lying down after a certain time does help also along with the elevation of the bed.
Has your cough ever left you?

[John W. (RPh)]

Hi:

Sure, Nexium (and all of the PPI's) have the side effect of Nausea, Headache, and loose stools.  It might be wise for you to switch PPI's until you find one that you tolerate the best. But rest assured that the PPI's are very safe and have fewer side effects and interactions than the older H2 receptor blockers (zantac,axid,tagamet,pepcid). The only exception is Prilosec which has the benefit of being the first PPI, but the drawback of having the most potential for interactions.

Just a little inside info: every single drug that you ingest has, as a side effect, headache or nausea.  This has really nothing to do with the medication, but how your body responds to the ingestion of this chemical.

Hope this helps,

John W. (RPh)

[Addie]

YES....I still have the cough and at times I get white phelm (like egg whites) coming up...Then when this happens, I cough some more.  The 'egg whites" normally come when i am talking, especially on the phone.  I also get horse and know that I will start getting the 'egg whites" in my throat.  Gerd is suppose to have a dry cough associated with it.  i have both the dry cough and the muscus producing cough.  I feel when I go back in for the EGD with the new female gastro doc that is treating mwe with nexium. and she balloons the small stricture in the espohagus, this will help with the cough and the gagging.  I hate this cough and my daughter wonders when it will leave as it annoys her also (-:     I could not tolerate two 40 mgs. of Nexium (one in the AM and one in the PM) so the gastro doc told me to take only one and in the AM and not the PM.  John who posted below stated the PPI's are safe but my concern is that the literature the pateint receives, states take for 8 weeks.  It seems many are on PPI's a lot longer than 8 weeks.  I wonder if they have done research on long term usage of PPI's.

Lisa

[dock]

Your cough sounds just like mine, I drive my husband nuts at night trying to sleep and my daughter and son know if I'm someplace they are by my cough.  I also gag, my doctor said to keep taking the nexium 2x's day and he wants to do another endoscopy next year.  Seems to me that is an awful long time to wait to see if it is helping.  I was diagnosed with esphophagatis (sorry for the spelling), and my stomach also has irration, and I have a hiatal hernia.  I just really would like some kind of relief from the cough.  Shortness of breath, I need to get deep breaths sometimes to feel like I am breathing right. I've had a chest exray done, and that was fine.  I feel like I'm heading for surgery, but I really want that to be my last resort! Please let me know how everything goes for you.

[Addie]

I am also short of breath and have to try real deep to get the breath /sigh) completed.  I had a chest x-ray.  it only showed scarring at the top of the lung.  One x-ray showed this and the other one did not.  scarring can come from the acid, (I believe I read this soemtime)

I went to the pulmonolgist with a worseing cough in late January. He said GERD, Asthma, Bronchitis and who knows what else. Yes, I can hear the wheezing in my throat and think also in my chest.  I know or feel this is about of the GERD.  I will not have surgery unless they tell me that I will die without it.

I do not trust surgeons like I use to.  One really messed my tummy up when they took my gallbladder out 15 years ago.  I also have a hiatel hernia. Some information on hiatal hernia lists it can cause shortness of breath.  

Dock, you may want to see in between waiting for the EGD, ask for a barium swallow.  This is what showed that the stricture was still there and this is what showed the hiatal hernia.  I paid a lot of money for the OLD Gastro guy (the word doc is too good for him) to do an EDG in December of 2000. I was suppose to not know or feel anything during the procedure.  He gave me Fentynal which is a very strong Narcotic and I was crying as he was really hurting me.He told me to shut up in the procedure room. I was allergic to this medication and to Opiods as it causes severe ductal spasms after I had the gallbladder out. I know I am rambling but I now shop docs.  Ask nurses and other patients which docs are the best.Docs will refer to their buddies who they golf with and socialize and attend conventions with.  Many are not aware how a doc treats his/her patients behind closed doors.

I have swore off all choclates and my favoite Italian dishes with red sauce.  Another thing is the more we cough the more we are irritating the GERD.  It is a vicious circle.  

We do have a large medical teaching school/hospital here but one still has to be aware.  I will keep you posted Dock, and please do the same.

[feelbetter]

Hi Everyone. I want to tell you that I have been on DGL for about 8 weeks now and I have never felt better! I no longer take any acid blockers after 3 years and I feel like a new person. I do still watch what I eat and I follow several other tips that Concerned Lady mentioned. For example, bending over can bring on an attack. I was "spring cleaning" for a sick friend today and after bending to reach her baseboard, I had a bad attack of pain. I chewed 2 DGL tablets and it went right away and I was able to get back to work! I did eat some chocolate at Easter time and I had some pain that even the DGL did not help but it really was my own fault for eating a "no no food." I certainly cannot say that I am cured but I feel that I am finally managing this thing instead of being managed by "IT". I feel like I can plan normal activities and not worry about being in pain for hours on end. I also take the acidophilus and I find that helps as well. I hope everyone finds relief for their pain. And by the way, HI to Needabreak. Thanks for thinking of me. I wish you and everyone all the best.

[moochie]

several years ago they put me on prilosec and it seemed to work ok for the regurging problem but still had stomach aches.  well insurance decided they would not pay anymore, so i had to swith to prevacis---it was useless. no help what so ever.  i had been off these meds for 1/1/2 yrs now.  august had gallbladder out, and felt ok for 2month.s  now it feel like the same problems as before gallbladder surgery. docs think i am crazy and too nervous and bring this on myself.  i got out of the hospital this friday and they put me on protonix, but insurance wont pay for it, so i do not know what to do know.  i have 4-5 other new meds they gave me to take that i am weary about doing so.does anyone else have a doctor that thinks they bring this on themselves?

[Addie]

What is DGL?  Over the counter?

Thanks, Lisa

[dock]

Why is your insurance company not paying for your medicine.  My doctor told me if I had a problem which I haven't, to refer the insurance company to him.  He had, enough proof from the tests that were done to prove to them I need what he prescribed.  Can you try that with your insurance?  If not can you switch carriers?  Good luck!

[feelbetter]

Hi. DGL is short for Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice. I use Enzymatic Therapy brand which you can get at healthfood stores. If you go to their website, you can put in your address and it will come up with stores near you that carry it. (www.enzy.com) It is a chewable form of licorice that has had the "bad" part removed so it does not cause high blood pressure. (Regular whole licorice can cause high blood pressure) The directions say to chew 2 tables 20 minutes before meals. See a Concerned Lady post for more info on DGL and other natural ways of dealing with GERD. As I mentioned, I do not feel "cured" I am managing my symptoms better than ever before. I still have some throat clearing especially in the morning but I have not had the pain. My relux always involved severe pain more than actually feeling any acid backing up in my throat. I hope DGL helps you if you decide to try it. It does not taste that good (in my opinion) but the results have been well worth it. Best Wishes!

[PM]

I took 40 mg of Aciphex for 5 months and I have been on Nexium for the last year.  40 mg of both caused bad side effects (worse than the actual Gastritis).  Joint pains and swelling, worse nausea, tachycardia, increased dehydration.  I finally discovered that I could dump out half the Nexium.  I now take about 15-20 mg of Nexium and it is much more tolerable.  I don't know why doctors will not acknowledge this, but they need to.  I think it could have caused serious problems had I stayed with the 40 mg.

[Addie]

My sister got a tiny little funnel from an apothacary shoppe and also bought clear unfilled capsules, the size meds come in.  She opened up the 40mg. PPI and placed 1/2 in the funnel that was sitting in the blank clear capsules, thus making a 20mg. capsule.

She also had problems with her doc i.e. side effects and also, the medication caused great swelling in her feet and ankles.

She is doing better now that she went down to 20mgs. per day.

[Addie]

My sister got a tiny little funnel from an apothacary shoppe and also bought clear unfilled capsules, the size meds come in.  She opened up the 40mg. PPI and placed 1/2 in the funnel that was sitting in the blank clear capsules, thus making a 20mg. capsule.

She also had problems with her doc i.e. side effects and also, the medication caused great swelling in her feet and ankles.

She is doing better now that she went down to 20mgs. per day.

[karie]

I have been on DGL for 16 days, Told to stop due to other symptoms I have pending: blue nails, bleeding gums.
The DGL helped with stomach pain, and none of the side effects like the PPI"S But I could still not introduce anything new in my diet. I bought DGL: Natural Factors and spoke with the makers.
IF concerned lady reads this Please let me know if 16 days is enough to heal my symptoms. Since directed to obstain for a while, and the endoscopy showed no ulcer; Dr. Weil said 6 weeks if ulcer is present, What about GERD and upset stomach ?
Here to well tummies and healthy patients

[Concerned lady]

Dear Karie,

You may have SEVERAL things going on, so it's good you'll be tested at the hospital today. I can't say that it would take a certain number of days to "cure" you, since I don't know what you have, and I'm not a doc!

I'll put some GASTRIC REFLUX TIPS here, that help many (but not all) reflux & ulcer patients.

Have your favorite doc look at these tips, and ask the doc to read the DGL bottle label, so that he or she will see that DGL isn't the same as regular licorice. DGL does NOT cause a rise in blood pressure, like plain licorice does.

But, if you have other problems (or some especially severe form of gastric reflux), you would need to do other things too, to get better.

For example, if you have CELIAC DISEASE, you need to avoid GLUTEN. GLUTEN is found in WHEAT, RYE, OATS, BARLEY, AND BUCKWHEAT. Avoid all of these for at least a month, to see if this helps. If yes, you may have Celiac Disease. Then, you might need to always avoid gluten. Avoid milk products for a while.

Brown rice has no gluten. You might need to temporarily avoid ALL GRAINS, if you have Celiac Disease, until the small intestine heals.

Good luck to you. Below are the GASTRIC REFLUX TIPS, that don't include any dangerous acid-blocking meds:

**************************

Some GASTRIC REFLUX TIPS (without acid blockers):

GER=Gastro-Esophageal Reflux. (Gastro=stomach. Esophagus=food tube.)

LPR= Laryngeal-Pharyngeal Reflux. (Larynx=voice box, containing the 2 vocal cords. Pharynx=throat, above the larynx. The larynx is above the trachea/windpipe.)

Reflux=acidic or alkaline stomach material that backs up into the esophagus (food tube), causing any of these problems: VCD attacks, cough, voice problems, asthma, globus (feeling of lump in throat), constant need to clear throat, worsening of sinus condition, sore throat, pre-cancerous conditions of throat &/or esophagus, etc.

SOME GER/LPR CONTROL THINGS WE DO, that we learned from the excellent book: STOMACH AILMENTS AND DIGESTIVE DISTURBANCES, by Michael T. Murray, N.D. See page 9, References, in my website: http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com   and, also see GER/LPR info on page 5, and on LINKS page.

PLEASE READ THIS GREAT BOOK. It can be bought on-line, from Michael T. Murray’s website.

Some of the following we learned from people &/or other books, &/or other good websites about voice, GER, etc.

(1) DGL (De-Glycyrrhizinated Licorice) is one of our main methods of controlling the GER/LPR. We use Enzymatic Therapy brand, shortly before meals. The DGL does NOT cause high blood pressure, and does NOT cause fluid retention/edema, because the bad (steroidal) part of whole/crude licorice has been removed, leaving the DGL. DGL is available at most health food stores, and at good pharmacies.
  
The DGL tablet(s) must be chewed, to mix with saliva, to be effective. If it is too dry, one could mash/crush it and mix with a little water, and then chew it up. Chew tablet(s) for a minute or so, to thoroughly mix with saliva, shortly before EVERY meal, and if necessary, between meals (Read label directions).
  
The DGL seems to not only promote healing of throat, esophagus and stomach, but also seems to help prevent OUR reflux.(resulting in no more globus/lump in throat sensation, no more constant throat clearing, excess mucous, excess phlegm, no more NIGHT-TIME VCD attacks, no more laryngitis, etc. for us)

We like the taste of the DGL CHEWABLE tablets, but for those who hate the taste, try the chocolate flavored kind, without any mint. (Mint—in all forms, can cause gastric reflux episodes. AVOID MINT!!).

(2) We use Thayers brand of SLIPPERY ELM Throat Lozenges when we feel the need. (Soothing, coating, healing, nourishing). Slippery Elm (inner bark from a tree) also comes in teabag form, or in bulk, etc. as an herbal supplement.

(3) We drink the occasional small glass of CARROT JUICE (organic, fresh) which soothes, coats, heals the digestive tract, is nourishing, and stimulates the immune system, with beta-carotene, soothing and coating PECTIN (a type of fiber), and other good nutrients. (Carrot soup, cooked carrots are also good. Beta-carotene is heat resistant.) (Beta-carotene later is turned into Vitamin A inside us). Don’t overdo. If your skin turns orange, cut back on the carrot juice. Avoid beta-carotene pills—too potent.

(4) We tried elevating the head of the bed a few inches, by putting 6 inch to 8 inch BLOCKS, ON THE FLOOR, under the head end of the bed. This creates a slant (tilt), where one’s head is 6 to 8 inches higher than the feet. This helps some people, but not all people. (Check with a pediatric Gastro-enterologist, about raising the head end of a bed of a child, or a crib of an infant). Also, see (16) about a special GERD PILLOW, for adults.

(5) We try NOT TO BEND OVER too often, and we try to AVOID STRAINING (Valsalva maneuver). We AVOID LIFTING HEAVY objects. (No weight lifting!) (at least until after no more reflux symptoms for 3 months).

(a) If CONSTIPATION is causing any straining, see Ref.15,18,23,24,25 on page 9 for ideas about gently treating constipation, including eating whole grains, not white (de-natured ones), etc.  For us, exercise, increased water intake, acidophilus/bifidus, digestive enzymes, avoiding junk food, improved diet, chewing slowly (takes will power!), eating when not under stress or angry, etc., all are helpful.

(6) NO MORE TIGHT pants, belt, corset,--AVOID TIGHT CLOTHING etc.

(7) We try to not eat too much junk food. Some people avoid acidic  food, while others need to eat acidic food, if their stomach is not producing any (or enough) acid. (It is good to avoid acid, if one has an ulcer.) These gastric reflux tips methods often can help to heal ulcers. Some people need betaine hydrochloride supplements, which becomes HCl/hydrochloric acid, or, some use vinegar (acetic acid) in salads, or mixed with water, while others need to avoid eating excess acid. Each person is unique. We avoid all artificial sweeteners. Anyone with diabetes might want to look at the excellent book Reversing Diabetes, by Dr. Julian Whittaker, M.D..

Diet soda pop contains the harmful artificial sweetener Aspartame (Equal/Nutrasweet), which can cause WEIGHT GAIN, HEADACHES, UPSET STOMACH, BLURRED VISION, BLINDNESS, TWITCHING, SEIZURES, BRAIN TUMORS, HYPERACTIVITY, MOOD SWINGS, ETC., and soda pop often has strong acids, plus other harmful artificial ingredients. Plain water, gentle herb teas, certain fruit juices, brown rice-milk, etc. are healthier substitutes for soda pops.

We try to avoid all artificial ingredients, including fake fats (like Olean, Olestra, etc.), because these can destroy the digestive system, and prevent absorption of vital nutrients, such as fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) from foods. These fake fats also prevent digestion and absorption of needed fats & oils, used to repair myelin nerve cell sheaths (made of fatty material, mostly cholesterol). Hormones are also made of mostly cholesterol.

(8)  We try to drink more water, to prevent chronic dehydration. We like hard (nicely mineralized) well or spring water.
We do not drink distilled water (soft water, no minerals), because it can leach minerals out of our bones, possibly contributing  to osteoporosis. (See Ref.18,23, on page 9.) We avoid water softeners (chemicals) because they can be toxic, and because good minerals help keep us healthy. People with KIDNEY PROBLEMS &/or GLAUCOMA, etc. should ask their docs how much water is safe to drink, since too much water can be dangerous for them! (But, dehydration can cause problems also.)

(9) We use ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS ( edible beneficial bacteria which keep bad YEASTS away, such as Candida Albicans, formerly called Monilia). ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS also can eat or control some bad bacteria, and some viruses. The acidophilus/bifidus are also called PRO-BIOTICS and are beneficial intestinal flora (mainly for the large intestine). We keep the jars refrigerated, but not too cold. (See Ref.14,15,23,24,25, on page 9).

Acidophilus/bifidus can re-populate the large intestine, with good bacteria, after antibiotics &/or steroids, etc. have killed off these good bacteria! Some of us have to continue eating the acidophilus/bifidus (daily, or from time to time), but the results seem worth the effort to us.

Yogurt and buttermilk contain similar beneficial bacteria, but are milk products, so see (11) below about milk products.

(10) We use DIGESTIVE ENZYMES. My husband likes Acid-Ease by Prevail, which contains Slippery Elm (inner bark), Marshmallow Root, Gamma-Oryzanol (from Rice Bran Oil), and the plant enzymes Amylase (digests starch), Lipase II (digests fat), and Cellulase I (digests cellulose from plant cell walls). The Acid-Ease does not contain Protease, which can be very irritating to ulcer/GER folks.

The Acid-Ease is NOT an acid blocker. It is not an antacid. It soothes, coats, nourishes, and promotes healing. Its enzymes help with leaky gut syndrome.

   I use Total Enzymes (which does have Protease, a protein digesting enzyme) by Nutri-West, a company that sells only to health practitioners (Chiropracters, Physicians, and others). One could ask their physician to order, at cost, for them, by having physician call 1-307-358-5066.

   Digestive enzymes are NOT FOR EVERYBODY.

(11)  My husband has found that AVOIDING MILK PRODUCTS helps him feel less congested, with less mucous in throat. Milk and milk products can cause gastric reflux episodes. Brown-Rice Milk (look for gluten-free) can substitute for milk (but not for babies!).

Gluten is in wheat, rye, oats, barley, & buckwheat. Read labels to avoid hidden gluten, in some soy sauces, gravies, grain alcohols, beer (barley malt), etc. People with Celiac Disease need to avoid all foods containing gluten. BROWN RICE (organic) is gluten-free. Corn is gluten free, but is very allergenic (allergy causing), so avoid corn. Avoid millet, because there is disagreement about whether millet is safe or not, for Celiac patients.

MILK MAY CAUSE MORE ACID to be produced, IN THE STOMACH.

I occasionally eat milk products, like yogurt, cheese, whipped cream, or my ACIDOPHILUS/BIFIDUS, which is mixed with goat milk powder. So, at these times, I take LACTASE ENZYMES, to digest (break down into easily absorbed small molecules) the milk-sugar called LACTOSE. Many people (due to heredity &/or disease) have Lactose intolerance, where one’s small intestine does not secrete the lactase enzyme. Result is that the milk-sugar (lactose) travels further down the small intestine than it should. Then, bad bacteria eat the lactose, giving off lots of gas (a by-product of the digestion of bad bacteria), and this causes folks to get bloated, gassy, have diarrhea, and cramping. I use Lactaid” brand lactase enzymes, and it works for me. Ordering direct from them can save money.

(12) Using the above methods has almost completely freed my husband of needing to use Tums, and seems to be nicely controlling his and my GER/LPR. We have never used acid blockers.

ACID BLOCKERS CAN HAVE DANGEROUS SIDE EFFECTS: Some examples are:

Acid must be present in the stomach, in order for the stomach to make a substance called Intrinsic Factor. Intrinsic factor must be present with Vitamin B 12, in the duodenum (first part of the small intestine), for absorption of Vitamin B 12 to happen.

Acid blockers therefore prevent absorption of Vitamin B 12. Malabsorption (lack of absorption) of Vitamin B 12, causes NERVE DAMAGE (pain, numbness, pins & needles sensation, etc.) in the peripheral nerves (outside the brain & spinal cord). This is called PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY. For details about this problem, see the Peripheral Neuropathy forum at http://www.braintalk.org

If Vitamin B 12 continues to NOT be absorbed, eventually there can be NERVE DAMAGE to the Central nervous system (brain & spinal cord).

ALSO, the minerals calcium, iron, zinc, other minerals, and important trace minerals, etc. cannot be properly absorbed, when there is no acid in the stomach (due to acid blockers, etc.).

AND, protein does not get properly digested (broken down--eventually into amino acids), in the stomach, when there is no acid in the stomach.

Doctors and pharmacists can advise about tapering down (weaning) schedules (when and if safe) for the acid blockers. Some acid blockers, when stopped too quickly, can cause rebound acid secretion in the stomach, resulting in excess hydrochloric acid secretion.

ALSO, SOME FORMS OF REFLUX ARE NOT ACID REFLUX, but are ALKALINE REFLUX, (bile is alkaline). Besides refluxed stomach acid (HCl/hydrochloric acid), Pepsin (an acidic proteolytic/protein digesting, enzyme) & bile (alkaline) can irritate & damage: the esophagus, throat, vocal cords, & lungs.

(13) Do not drink ICY COLD DRINKS, and AVOID VERY HOT DRINKS. Use room temperature drinks, or slightly cool, or warm, but not ultra-hot. Extremely cold or hot liquids can irritate the stomach, which is bad for ulcers &/or gastric reflux.

(14) Ask physical therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, etc. if they know any safe adjustments that might lessen GER/LPR, if you wish.

(15) Read (by Dr. James A. Koufman) PATIENT INFORMATION SHEET ON REFLUX by Center for Voice Disorders of Wake Forest University. Here’s a link:  http://www.bgsm.edu/voice/pt_info.html  Dr. Koufman was a pioneer in showing the connection between stomach reflux (can be acid reflux OR alkaline reflux) and breathing problems!

(16) Some have found a special (large) GERD pillow helpful for preventing GERD episodes while sleeping and while lying down. Here is a link to the Prop up pillow website:  http://www.propuppillow.com

(17) Avoid harmful chemical air pollution, which can aggravate gastric reflux. See page 5 of VCD website for more about this.

(18) Using the above methods, in addition to the SINUS SURVIVAL tips, has helped us to prevent VCD attacks, in us.

(19) Please check with your doctor, in advance, to be sure that it is OK for you to try these tips, in your particular case. Also, please get monitored by your doctor, to be sure that no more damage to the throat, esophagus, stomach, vocal cords, lungs, etc. is happening, from possible SILENT gastric reflux.

Pregnant or nursing ladies should check with their doctors, before trying any of these tips.

Avoid any herbs, foods, etc. that you may be allergic to.

Check with your doctor and pharmacist, to be sure that there would be no harmful interactions between any of your medications, diet that you may be on, and any herbs, foods, etc. mentioned in these tips.

Check with your doctor, to be sure that these tips would not interact badly with any medical condition you may have.

These tips help my husband and me (adults). Some of these tips may be OK for children, and others may not be OK for children. Check with your doctor! Babies with gastric reflux need DIFFERENT treatments, not these tips (except for raising the head end of the crib, if your doctor says it is OK to do this, etc.). Check with your doctor!

Sincerely, Concerned lady

[karie]

HI,
I will show the DGL to my doctor, I have not used it 2 days.
Do you know what specific test is for Celiac ?Trying to read the Lab Order forms ?
stool.blood,urine
Can stomach ailments lead to other health issues  Hope to locate my cause.
I must learn to read lab orders . Thanks for you support here at this board.

[Addie]

Hi Karie,

I believe that one can test for celiac disease thru stool samples.  I bleieve (not a doctor) that they measure for fat content.  Please be sure to ask your doctor about this. I think they did this on me several years ago.  They also looked for Giardia thru stool samples (parasite)but on me it did not show this way.  It did show by a doc going into the stomach (EGD)and bringing up washings that he had analyzed and it was positive for Giardia.

Good Luck to you.

[Concerned lady]

There are also some blood tests (in addition to the stool tests) for Celiac Disease. There's a lot of good info about Celiac Disease, and in particular, at a forum called "peripheral neuropathy" over at http://www.braintalk.org

Look for JCC's "threads" about Celiac Disease. In JCC's thread, there are "links" to Dr. Fine's websites. Dr. Fine runs a lab that tests for Celiac Disease and for other FOOD SENSITIVITIES.

Dr. Fine's own daughter had Celiac Disease, so that's why he is now an expert on Celiac Disease.

Good luck to all.

Sincerely, Concerned lady

http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com

[cmaj]

If your reflux is that bad, check out Nissen fundoplication (reflux surgery). I suffered with reflux/heartburn for the last 20 years. The last five it progressively got worse. I have been on Prilosec for a few years  and Nexum for the last 6 months. It was not 100 % effective and was progressively getting worse. I had all the tests done and elected to do the surgery. Its only a couple of weeks after surgery and already a huge improvement. I highly recommend the operation but only if you select the right surgeon. It is a delicate and exact operation. Take a look at some of the horror stories on this forum. The surgeon should have multiple surgeries behind him, he should have done both open and laproscopic surgeries and he should have reference patients. If you select the right surgeon, it will drastically improve your life and get you of meds.

[kare]

Hi! I have had blood tests, stress echo and on 4/11 a sonogram of my gall bladder,liver and kidney. All came back okay.  I had an EDG which they found gastritis and reflux. This explains the tenderness in my stomach when pushed on. The reflux explained the feeling of sore throat everyday and a couple of months ago problems at night, difficulty swallowing and lump in throat feeling. But it did not answer the problem of severe chest pain and back pain between shoulder blades (which I thought was heart related). It comes all during the day and night. It can begin minutes after I eat. The doctor thinks this is a problem with my esophagus. It can be one of two esophagus problems relating to the spasm or constractions of the esophagus. The doctor is going to perform a test called Esophageal Mobility which measures the contraction and relaxation at the start and end of the esophagus.It also measures the squeezing peristalsis that pushes the food into your stomach. I am staying away from all the "bad foods,drinks and spices", try not to eat 2-3 hours before bedtime and do not bend over. It does help. I have such a difficult time finding things that I can eat. My weight is up and down between 98-102lbs. Milk products can cause symptoms as well as foods with oils in them. Oh heck, pretty much everything! I can deal with all but the pain in back and chest can become overwhelming. Problem is I am breastfeeding. They want me to take Nexium 40 mg, have not started because I didn't like what I read in the pamplet. I am concerned about side effects for myself and my baby. I take about 8 Tums Ultras a day, before and after meals. Two before bed which helps. But the Tums provides little relief and for short periods. They want me to take medication for the esophagus problem such as Reglan (which has terrible side effects including depression) and Propulcid. Both enter the brain. Domperidone was suggested to me as a safer medication that does not enter brain. It has to be compounded by a pharmacy or purchased from New Zealand. The doctors want me to wean my 11 month old. Regardless of nursing or not I don't want to take a medication with a lot of side effects that will make me feel worse than I already do. Does anyone have similiar problems? Can anyone please give me suggestions that relate to my situation?

[jm_j]

I have been taking Nexium for 6 months, after having tried everything else with no success. Nexium pretty much changed my life within 48 hours of starting to take it. Fortunately, I have none of the side effects and seem to be able to eat mostly what I want. I do find that if I don't eat at least 3 meals a day, I start to feel the pressure building up in my throat again.

The only bad effect it seems to have had for me is that I have become completely intolerant to alcohol. One glass of wine and not only do I feel tipsy, but I also get a hangover (headache, dizziness, upset stomach), something I have never really had before. I have found no reference to this in any of the literature. Has anyone heard of this or had any experiences with this? I know it's minor and, if necessary, I can live without wine, but I'd like to know if this is something that others have heard of.

Thanks,
Julia

[ISHA]

I have been on Prilosec, Previcid, aciphlex, and zantac,  i have never had any side effects from them,  they may not of worked for my condition but i have never had any side effects,  it all depends on the person.  So just watch your body and keep a log of your symptoms.

[ISHA]

I have been on Prilosec, Previcid, aciphlex, and zantac,  i have never had any side effects from them,  they may not of worked for my condition but i have never had any side effects,  it all depends on the person.  So just watch your body and keep a log of your symptoms.

[Moli]

I have been on Nexium for 8 month, have had many tests and have tried just about everything - from herbs to acupuncture - but still have chest pain and back pain with occasional dry cough. Just went from 40 mg 1Xday to 2X a day  of Nexium and have felt some relief - but my chest area is so tender I can't even wear a bra.  Anyone have similar probems?  Suggestions??

[land]

Hi-I had my gallbladder out last year due to symptoms they thought was related to this.  The ultrasound showed polyps and two small stones.  I still experience the same symptoms so it wasn't the gall bladder.  I have been on 40 mg of Nexium for about 2 months now and it does seem to allow me to eat what I want-but that's the problem.  You don't change your habits and I wonder if things are still continuing to happen inside and are masked by the medicine.  Lately, I have been experiencing the lump in my throat, difficulty in swallowing, shortness of breath, coughing, and always clearing my throat.  I have many sinus infections per year, and constant hoarseness.  I don't feel the acid reflux, but it must stiill be going on if this is starting to happen.  I wonder about the long term effects of Nexum and I do not want to be on it.  Now I have found this column with people who are experiencing exactly what I am having.
I can't tell you how good that feels!!!  I went to the doctor for my heart because of the shortness of breath!  I read Dr. Weil's book recently and have decided to try the DGL.  I am so frustrated and pissed with doctors and western medicine.  It seems it's always about the 'quick fix',and no mention about long term effects.  I am going to try to slowly wean myself off of the Nexium without the help of a doctor.  Sometimes I think the patient knows more than the doctor.  Well, I know they do.  Does anyone out there have a brand of the DGL to try???  Are there any side effects from it?  Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

[kgem]

I have been on 40 mg of Nexium for 10 months with 2 to go.  DX is severe esophagitis & gastric ulcers.  I had no symptoms or complaints when referred to GI MD, but had positive guiac test & family hx of colon cancer.
Adverse symptoms of Nexium include severe diarrhea, headache, angioedema, feeling of water in ears, and body/muscle aches.
Has anyone switched to 20 mg of Nexium with fewer symptoms?  I am not schedule to see doctor until February.  Should I call him sooner?

[QCD]

Does wine and beer have an effect on Nexium.  I've been taking Nexium 40mg twice a day for < 2 months and now once a day for about the same time.  I'm 61, like going to the Gym and doing most days, I guess I should give that a break.  I sometimes get red spots on my tongue.  In addition my tongue looks like it needs to be cleaned all the time.  I also have a minor sour taste .  I too believe that the type of food could make a big difference.  Is there such a book, like GERD for Dummies?

[moozie]

Hello All,

I can't seem to eat any solid foods, I'm feeling weaker and weaker and more anxiety and panick attacks. Can the PPI's cause this ?

I'm just not getting any better, and I'm very worried, I can't go to work or live a normal life.

Please help

[moozie]

Hello All,

I can't seem to eat any solid foods, I'm feeling weaker and weaker and more anxiety and panick attacks. Can the PPI's cause this ?

I'm just not getting any better, and I'm very worried, I can't go to work or live a normal life.

Please help

[iamamy]

Moozie,

I am so sorry that you are still struggling.  What are you eating?  That is the biggest thing that helped me.  If you are like me, I could not settle down until the pain went away.  My mother used to say you have got to get a grip, but I couldn't.  And as soon as I quit hurting, I did get a hold on my nerves.  If you need a list of foods to avoid, let me know, and I will try to find the URL for the one I used.  Alot of the foods that I thought were OK and was eating, were not.  I hope you are feeling better soon.

Amy

[moozie]

Thanks for replying amy, I'm so scared of everything and I'm wondering if these meds or this condition causes panick attacks?
I can't really eat solid foods. Don't know what's going on.

Please write me at ***@****