I never took another Protonix after surgery. And I wondered why at every doctor's appt. they would ask if I had any heartburn, because I thought it was ancient history.

I went in for my July appt. and they asked, and I swear, the next day I started having heartburn. Like MAJOR. I also knew I was about ready for another fill, so I just dealt with it until I went back for my 1 year in August.

I got the fill and by golly, if the heartburn didn't get WORSE!! I've been awakened several nights with burning in my throat and a couple of times even got some acid in my windpipe and tho't I was dying from the burning!! I came on LBT and did some reading and see that some people still have problems afterward, but I've not seen where someone was completely problem free for a long period of time and then suddenly got hit big time.

Do you think I need to be worried?

Is it worth calling my surgeon's office?

Should I keep taking OTC or should I go in to the surgeon or GP and get back on something Rx....?

The last middle of the night episode was SO unpleasant I'm skeered to try it without meds!!!

Nana -

Call your doctor right away. I went yesterday to get a fill and I was afraid that I had an issue. Boy, did my Doc chew me out for not calling him immediately. He reminded me that he works for me so to speak. Moderator Jack had the best advice. Only you and your doctor can say what is best for you. Trust me, they do not feel that you bother them. Please call him.

Nana, I have heard that heartburn after a fill can actually be a sign of being to tight. I would definetly call the doctor!