Long history of heartburn: Further management

Dear Ask The Doctor: I have had heartburn every day for the last 2 years. I take pepcid ac everyday to relieve it. Is it dangerous? Is there something wrong with me? I have changed my eating habits but nothing helps.

Dear Crystal: Taking pepcid ac for a long period of time is not dangerous. However you need to get your self examined as regards to your symptoms. You could be have plain reflux or you may be having a peptic/gastric ulcer which may also lead to similar symptoms. The reflux needs to be controlled with more stronger drugs like proton pump inhibitors which will help decrease the acid reflux. Also you may be having a hiatus hernia which is leading to the reflux. Please see you family physician for a more indetail examination and further testing. I know you said that you have changed your eating habits but just to mention: Avoid smoking , alcohol, spicy and oily food, chocolates and citrus fruits as they worsen the symptoms. All the best.