Questions in the Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum have been answered by Dr. Kevin Pho who is board certified in Internal Medicine and by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Question Title: Acid Reflux or Sinus Drainage???

Forum: The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum
Topic: Reflux Esophagitis


I have had recurring episodes of sinus infections.
I have developed a pain in my chest, like someone hit it hard.
Due to my sinus infections I have taken eight different antibotics in a period of 9 monts. 5 different nasal sprays and also Robutussin to help drain. However, I have developed also a sore throat and raw itchy sensations in my throat and in my chest. The dr. concluded I have acid reflux. I did have a barium swallow done and a scope down my throat to my stomach and everything was fine. My symptoms seem to diminish for a while and now after sinus treatment again they have resurfaced. Am I causing the problem with the antibotics, nasal sprays and robutussin. Also, I had started to drink decaf coffee after going totally off regular coffee. What should I do to heal myself?
The doctor gave me 40 mg Pepcid at bedtime use but I am really sick of mixing all of the medicine. All of these conditions with a few personal problems have made my nerves frazzled. The doctor also gave me Ativan for nerves, which I don't really want to take.
You see I don't like meds. Most of them don't agree with me.
Can you offer some advice?
Thank You!

P.S. What should I avoid ???
______
Dear Michele,
Before you change your lifestyle, or take additional medications, you need proof that you do indeed have reflux and that the reflux and not sinuis drainage or other problems is the cause for your symptoms. I assume that the endoscopy of the esophagus andn stomach was normal. The next step that I would suggest is an esophageal motility study and 24 hr pH probe test to confirm whether you have reflux. If reflux is demonstrated then dietary changes etc can be considered.

This information is presented for educational purposes. Ask specifci questions to your personal physician.

HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: esophageal reflux
0.1




This Forum's Doctors
Kevin Pho, MD
Kevin, M.D.
Expert Activity
Salmonella typhimurium outbreak sic...
22 hrs ago by Enoch Choi, MD
Can Sleep Apnea Cause Alzheimer's?...
Jan 05 by Steven Y Park, MD
Optimal Health in 2009- Happy New Y... 
Dec 31 by Lee Kirksey, MD

[The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum]    [The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum Archives]