Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: Increased heartburn/GERD?

Hi,

I have IBS with acid reflux as well. I'm still new to IBS, like you, but I've been struggling with GERD for over four years. How long have you had reflux? I'm sure your doctor has already told you this, and you probably do it, but make sure you wait a good half an hour before eating after you take your reflux meds. What med are you on? I take Prevacid, which works pretty well, but everyone is different. In terms of your diet from yesterday, I would say the main culprit is the sandwich. Personally, the biggest GERD trigger for me is either caffeine (which I ABSOLUTELY stay away from) or citrus, and in particular tomatoes. I haven't been able to eat any tomatoes, raw or cooked, in years without having heartburn, and that's even on my meds. The mustard might have contributed as well. Otherwise, it might be just your body's way of adjusting to the IBS diet. From what I've read on these boards and the advice of others who have suffered for longer, your body does need time to adjust to your new way of life. The reflux may be your body's way of saying "hold on, what's going on here." Which sucks, certainly, and I feel your pain. But if that's the case, then it'll most likely get better. My other advice in terms of heartburn is not to eat late (never within an hour of bedtime), and elevate your head when you sleep. I hope some of this helps you -- feel better and good luck!

Julie
IBS-D, GERD, lactose intolerant

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"We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it."

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