Adele Long
Hi. I have gastroesophogeal reflux disease too. I take a proton pump inhibitor (aciphex) twice a day. There are other things you can do: eliminate caffeine, chocolate, tomatoe products, alcohol and other irritants; raise the head of your bead by 6-8 inches; not eat within 3-4 hours of going to sleep/lying down, etc. Having GERD for over 5 years puts one at risk for Barret's esophogus and esophogeal cancer. You should insist that your doctor order an upper endoscopy. I went through hell getting it approved by my HMO, but finally got one and they found a polyp. Fortunately, it was benign, but I have to get rechecked in a year. So be persistent and appeal if you must. Good luck.