I was diagnosed with GERD in my early 20s. I wasn't overweight at the time. Over the years the symptoms have gotten worse. Of course I've gotten heavier too.
I used Prilosec OTC for a while. I finally got a prescription for Prevacid and it works most of the time. However, I don't have prescription coverage so I get it from their Patient Assistance Program. Each refill takes about 30 days to get to me. In the mean time if I have let it run out and not filled it quick enough I'm sick, sick, sick.
Currently I have 4 pills left (of Prevacid). I need to get the refill request to the doctor so he can fill out his part, write the prescription and get it mailed in. My fault it hasn't been done.
Since I'm low I've been experimenting with other stuff. I tried this Heartburn MD stuff. It really hasn't helped at all. I also keep around Prilosec or its generic. It will help for a short time.
Right now I haven't had much sleep this weekend. Last night I coughed all night and inhaled either acid or saliva into my lungs. Then I woke up still coughing and eventually threw up. The middle of my chest has hurt all day. I don't know if I took too many antacids and other stuff but then I had five bouts of diarrhea. I ate lunch and it settled my stomach for a while. After dinner I started having problems again. I ate until I was almost full. Less than 30 minutes later I felt hungry again.
A few hours ago I started researching home remedies. I read several and tried one (raw potatoes, which I do like). It settled my stomach for about an hour.
I tried going to sleep at midnight in the recliner sitting up right. I fell asleep once for a short time but woke up coughing. It is now 2:15 am. My stomach feels horrible. I feel bloated. My stomach keeps rumbling. I keep feeling like I have to go to the bathroom (with diarrhea).
I have finally resorted to taking a Prevacid. I have to get to sleep because I have to be up at 10 am to watch my 11 1/2 week old nephew so I have to get to sleep soon. Luckily he naps enough I should be able to get a nap in during the day.
I don't have any insurance so seeing my doctor is out of the question for now. Has anyone found any good home remedies or other help? Antacids only seem to give me very short temporary relief. I also use liquid which does the same. However, it seems like if I take too much I get diarrhea.