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Does gum help and other complications of LPR

Posted , 4 users are following.

onebratt08
onebratt08

I've been reading that sodium bicarbonate gum helps with LPR. Is this true? I gave up chewing gum years ago because my dentist said it's not good for my teeth (not even sugar free), so I don't want to start that habit again if it won't help me.

Also, are there other complications of LPR that aren't commonly discussed, for example chemical/odor sensitivity? I swear my superpower is a super sense of small. I have new food intolerances that I didn't used to have, for example, one sip of wine will leave me feeling hung over (I realize wine isn't good for LPR, but I have developed such a heightened sensitivity to it).

Thanks!

 

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • Barretts
    Barretts onebratt08

    Posted

    Visit the free book / website www DownWithAcid org uk to see a list of 14 commonly reported symptoms of Extra-Oesophageal reflux (also known as LPR).

    You'll also find a chapter on "Natural remedies" which includes gum.

    Chewing gum is good to hlep reduce acid inasmuch as it produces more saliva which can help neutralise excess acid. But choose sugar free gum: I'm guessing your dentist is concerned by the sugars.

    I don't know of sodium bicarbonate gum but sodium bicarbonate is an acid neutraliser (also mentioned in the "Natural remedies" list in the book).

    Whilst a number have reported hyposmia (poor sense of smell) and phantosmia (smelling smells that aren't there) - and I have experienced both most of my life, hyperosmia (over sensitive sense of smell) is a curious one.

    • constance.de
      constance.de Barretts

      Posted

      Thank goodness there is someone who explains what all these letters/expressions mean.👍  I'm new to the forum and I'm an old woman -  in my day (do you hear the vilolins playing?) - we used 'proper' English.
    • onebratt08
      onebratt08 constance.de

      Posted

      I'm not sure that anyone would classify medical terms as "proper English." Even medical docs talk to patients using abbreviations and commonly known terms like LPR, GERD, etc. (at least here in the United States).
    • constance.de
      constance.de onebratt08

      Posted

      You're probably right.  However, more and more 'letters'  instead of 'words' are coming into our lovely language (many from America!!).  As I have lived in Germany for 44 years I am afraid I am a bit 'old fashioned' as far as language is concerned.

      No offense meant!

      Regards fr C.

  • onebratt08
    onebratt08

    Posted

    I've also read that DG Licorice helps. I happen to have a bottle at home that I'm going to try before trying the gum.
    • Barretts
      Barretts onebratt08

      Posted

      From the Down With Acid book:

      "liquorice is a demulcent forming a soothing layer over inflammation and possibly increasing production of mucous thus possibly providing symptom relief.

      "However, while licorice contains beneficial phytochemicals, it also contains glycyrrhizic acid, which is associated with side effects. To counter this, a modified form of the botanical medicine, known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL licorice, is available. Although considered safer, DGL licorice may still pose certain health risks." [Livestrong] 

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