I think I would need a little more information to help you with your question, Millie.   Your health history is probably a complicated one, seeing as you needed to have your kidney removed. Along with the reason for your recent surgery, I wonder what other drugs you may taking, besides the Aciphex. Any of these things, alone or together, could play a role in causing heartburn.   Additionally, if you have gained some weight, and have been lounging around on the couch, or in bed, a lot while you've been recuperating from your operation, you could very well be experiencing a worsening of pre-existing gastric reflux.   In any case, please let your doctor know about the change in your symptoms.   Hope