difficulty swallowing after fosamax/

I have IBS> I started to take fosamax once a week (for osteo). did so for 4 weeks. it seemed to bother my esophagus (bumping, reflux) so my doctor suggested actonel. i took one pill a week ago and since have had increasing sensation of a lump in my throat, and like I'm full of phlegm that I can't ever swallow down. I can eat so of course I am swallowing. I'm off all drug right now but throat/phlegm sensations feel settled in, especailly bad at night, and are anxiety provoking. has anyone had this reaction, how long did it last, and what kind of followup did you receive from your physician.

[girlvet]

Hi spitfire...eek I did the same thing after fosamax.  My former GP told me I had early bone loss (I cant remember the name she gave it) after a bone scan, then after seeinig my ENT about the issue he told me my esophagus was actually irritated from the med.  And of course the "panic" when you feel as if you cant swallow only makes it worse.  He looked at me as if I was nuts when I told him I was even on the fosamax, and recommended I stop it altogether.  Having said all that, I realize many many need the med, but I guess my suggestion would be to see an Ear/Nose/Throat doctor - he may have some suggestions for you, and would be able to see if any damage is done.  Best of luck to you!

[spitfire50]

Hi -- thanks for the quick response! did the effects go away simply by stopping fosamax and if so, how long did that take?

[girlvet]

Hi again, yes they did go away - and almost immediately!  It was a situation where my bone scan was debatable I think - one doc said bone loss, my new GP said Im simply smaller framed than the templates they use to measure..now I only take calcium D and workout a little harder...and my ENT tended to agree with that route, at least until my next scan.  

Also, ENT recommended that I sleep a bit upright on the pillow with head tilted - guess that helps too with reflux overnight.  Maybe you could talk to your doc about the "once monthy" treatment?  May be easier on the espophagus..not real sure.  Best of luck to you.