Hi Sally,
We are the pain management forum. You may want to post in the general health community as they may have more information for you. If have require assistance locating the forums please let me know.
I can not for the life me my understand why you would not want to treat your GERD. I have had it for years and take medication daily to treat it. I have had no ill side effects. When you have acid reflux your stomach contents can reflux into your respiratory system... causing cough and sometimes bronchitis or even pneumonia.
Another forum you may want to post on is the Gastroenterology Community. They may be able to offer additional suggestions.
Best of Luck,
~Tuck