Ask An Expert: Digestive Disorders

I have had acid reflux off and on in the past, but it has been much better recently. About one year ago, a doctor looked down my esophagus and into my stomach (a test he called an upper endoscopy). My esophagus was inflamed and I was told to take the medication Aciphex indefinitely. I rarely have heartburn and never need antacids. I certainly don't want to take this medicine forever. If I eat less acidic foods and don't experience heartburn, is it necessary to take this drug to keep my esophagus healthy?

I'm 48 years old and have suddenly started suffering from lactose intolerance. I am avoiding all kinds of dairy to prevent the bloating and pain. I thought that was the end of it, but other foods are bothering me now, like peanuts and meats. The list of foods I can eat is shrinking by the day. Do you think I might have a serious problem in my digestive system? Should I go for intensive testing?

I have recently started having a problem with swallowing foods. It seems like my throat muscles just stopped working. What could this be? It is really starting to bother me.

I have been diagnosed with gallstones. What foods can I eat to help them dissolve so I don't have to have surgery?

A while back, I had some pain in my upper right abdomen. My doctor ordered some gallbladder tests. I don't have stones, but the test did show there is a blockage; my gallbladder is working at only 4%. The pain does not bother me that much, it is just annoying sometimes. I've been watching my intake of fatty foods and am trying to be healthier. Does this condition always require surgery to remove the gallbladder?

Every time I eat dairy, I get diarrhea and have to run to the bathroom almost the whole day. But when I use products such as Lactaid, I get constipated. What is wrong here? Are there vitamins I need to take to obtain a healthy and normal bowel movement?

If a bile duct blockage is not cleared, what will happen?

Is there a connection between IBS and fibromyalgia?

Is it better to take Prilosec in the morning or evening?

Can celiac patients tolerate yeast?