“Should I have a blood test before taking this medication?”
I have had problems (for a few months) with swallowing up to the point of choking sometimes, so saw GP and was referred to an ENT consultant who checked my throat, etc and found nothing wrong. He asked three times whether I had heartburn or acid reflux, which I have not. Then he told me he would give me medication, which turned out to be GAVISCON ADVANCE, for indigestion and acid reflux. I searched online about how potassium works and what the side effects are. Since I have a diet high in avocados, bananas, and other food containing potassium, I am very reluctant to just take this medicine, since I have not had a blood test showing a lack of potassium. Do you think it is sensible to get back to my GP again and ask for a blood test, or is it safe to take this medication, which I haven't done so far?
Female | 77 years old
3 Answers
It appears you have GERD. I would advise you to see a gastroenterologist right away so you can have your esophagus checked. It is possible you have "atypical reflux" and an upper endoscopy will be needed.
Take Prilosec OTC for a week and see how it goes
Gaviscon works via the bicarbonate that it contains, not the potassium. It's ok to take it. You don't need a blood test beforehand.
