Hi Jenna,Ask your doctor about Carafate suspension, or even Sulcrafate tablets. I have a very reactive stomach, and have had times when my stomach hurts a lot. Thankfully I have good prescription coverage and I can get Carafate suspension. You have to follow the directions for taking it very carefully (2 hrs. before or after medication, an hour before and 2 hours after meals). I find it very helpful and relieves a lot of discomfort.
If you don't have good coverage you can try the generic Sulcrafate. If your lower esophagus is irritated, you'd be best to put the pill in a medicine cup and add a little water, then mix it with a toothpick and throw it back like a shot.
Once you have the surgery you'd definitely have to put Sulcrafate into the water as described above, because it would be way too hard to swallow.
Check it out. Get the suspension if you have good coverage...
Hang in there!
Denise