acidreflux??

Help! I have been having this problem for over a year now, and it's starting to drive me crazy. Here are my symptoms: There is a bitter taste in my mouth. Although hard to describe, it feels like food "doesn't go down all the way." This is rather gross, but sometimes a tiny chunk of something hard and foul-smelling comes up in my mouth. It feels like there is a tickle in my throat..it is not always in the same place. Sometimes it feels like there is a "tightening" in my esophagus..that food just doesn't want to go through or stay down. The thing is, it is not worse when I lay down, and it is not worse right after I eat. Often it is just as bad if not WORSE if I haven't eaten in awhile. I have not ever had heartburn or indigestion or nausea..classic signs of GERD. I had a barium swallow, and the doctor said there is a slight deviation in my esophagus. He did not seem concerned. I have been taking one Ranitidine tablet every day and it is not improving at all. Spicy foods and caffeine do not make symptoms any worse than if I eat salad and drink water. I have none of the risk factors for GERD. I'm 25 and normal weight. I do not eat huge meals. Any thoughts?? I'd value any suggestions. This problem is not getting any better, and I am afraid if it is GERD and I'm not treating it, it could turn into Barrett's esophagus.