Hello GeeLee,

Thank you for your message. I am not sure if I understand your concern. If you are having an increase in symptoms and need more medication to get through the day, it is definitely time to revisit the treatment plan with the doctor. It might be necessary to change the medication, add another medication or increase the dose. The doctor might want to do a test such as an endoscopy to look at your esophagus. It is really important to review the treatment plan with your doctor on a regular basis. My kids go to the GI doctor every 6 months or year.

If you are having occasional periods where the reflux is worse, that may just be part of the condition. Reflux can come and go, worsen for a period of time and get better. In children, a respiratory illness can worsen reflux for weeks after. Maybe this is true in adults too. I am certainly less familiar with adult gerd than little ones!

Don't overlook the importance of eating carefully and eating small meals. In addition, elevating the bed at night are the standard treatments. The American College of Gastroenterology just published new treatment guidelines. Let me know if you need assistance finding the document. I assure you there is no magic pill, herb or other remedy that will cure reflux.

Many adults can go for months or years on medication such as Nexium. If you face long term medication treatment or have symptoms despite treatment, surgery may be indicated. There are some non surgical approaches being tried. I am not sure if the Amer College of Gastroenterology has endorsed any. I will try to find out for you.

Let me know what you think.

Jan Gambino

The Reflux Mom