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What Causes Headache While On Prilosec?

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Posted on Fri, 13 Nov 2015
Question: I was diagnosed with acid reflux by my general practitioner, who prescribed 40mg of prilosec. I was suffering from rather severe headaches while taking that medication and was switched to prontix, also 40mg. That medication seems to cause constipation, but the headaches have subsided. I've been on prontix for about a week but haven't noticed a change in symptoms. My largest complaint is a sore throat, that also feels like a lump in the throat while swallowing. I also constantly feel as if I have to clear my throat. I was wondering how long it takes for a sore throat to begin to heal from acid reflux? Is there anything else that I can take to assist with the sore throat? Also is there anything that would be safe to take for constipation while on the prontix, or should I consider switching to something like Nexium?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
I will recommend further evaluation!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this acid reflux. The truth is that these symptoms are very much in line with acid reflux and failure of these medications to control your symptoms may point to the fact that the degree of acid reflux is huge. This way, you will need to get an upper endoscopy examination to evaluate the extent of this reflux. It may be that you require a surgical approach to address yours by tightening the opening of the esophagus into the stomach.

Protonix is good and equally effective as nexium. I will not want to say you should switch medications at this time.

I will also recommend lifestyle modifications such as low fats, no chocolates, no alcohol, no tobacco, avoid eating late at night and avoid leaning forward soon after meals.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (20 minutes later)
I do not mind continuing to use Prontix since it doesn't cause the headaches like Prilosec does. But Prontix seems to cause constipation, is it safe to take stool softeners such as Colace to help with this issue or is there another type of laxative that would be recommended?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (13 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Colace is good enough!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this follow up information.

I will say stay with protonix then. Colace is good for constipation and there is no adverse interaction with protonix. However, I will recommend regular physical exercises, increased fluids, fiber, fruits and vegetables consumption to help relieve the constipation.

I hope this helps. Let me know if there is something more I you would like me to touch basis with at this point! Also, keep me updated on how you are doing.
Note: For further follow up on digestive issues share your reports here and Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ivo Ditah

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 3984 Questions

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What Causes Headache While On Prilosec?

Brief Answer: I will recommend further evaluation! Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I am so sorry to hear about this acid reflux. The truth is that these symptoms are very much in line with acid reflux and failure of these medications to control your symptoms may point to the fact that the degree of acid reflux is huge. This way, you will need to get an upper endoscopy examination to evaluate the extent of this reflux. It may be that you require a surgical approach to address yours by tightening the opening of the esophagus into the stomach. Protonix is good and equally effective as nexium. I will not want to say you should switch medications at this time. I will also recommend lifestyle modifications such as low fats, no chocolates, no alcohol, no tobacco, avoid eating late at night and avoid leaning forward soon after meals. I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.