Hi Louise
Sounds like it might be reflux, glad your going for the barium. Just had a flare myself last few weeks, my sense of taste was definitely affected this time around. General consensus for reflux is eat very bland soft foods for a bit, smaller meals more often and no alcohol, smoking or sweets or caffeine. Also maybe like me, my stress aggravates it and it is easier said then done however I force myself anyways. I ate mashed potatoes, bananas, soups if you can tolerate it, bottled water only. I say all this but everyone is different in what they can tolerate when they have a flare but this is what's helping me now. I was diagnosed with it by barium couple years ago and this is my second flare. Have you tried over the counter meds yet? You can ask a pharmacist to see what's best for you until you go for test or doctors. I hope this helps more, I'm an email away as well. Feel better soon and keep posting :))