I have had trouble swallowing for years. In the past month, I had the endoscopic procedure and discovered that I have gastritis, a hiatal hernia, and Barrett's esophagus. This was a shock to me, since I have spent my life (I'm 66) in good health--nutritious and low-fat foods, water, no smoking or drinking, running an hour each day, etc. I waited 3 hours after eating before going to bed. I did everything right. So I was shocked. The doctor says that I must take Nexium the rest of my life if I wish to be healed. He says there is no cancer yet. I must restrict my diet from offending foods. My question: Why did I get this condition? Can I do anything natural to heal the body? I've read that Nexium should not be taken for more than 4 to 8 weeks. But the doctor says the rest of my life. Isn't this dangerous? What shall I do? Thank you so much! --Richard