The data you provided (ulcerated esophagus, condition not much improved after a course of proton pump blockers) might indicate that the condition is caused by GERD (GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease), rather than hyper production of gastric acid.


GERD is a condition in which the gastric acid enters the lower part of the esophagus from the stomach. There are a number of causes for this, but most frequently the muscle at the beginning of the stomach does not function (close) properly allowing the acid (and food, if present) to leave the stomach. A diaphragmal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach might protrude through a hole in the diaphragm that is unusually big. This might put pressure on the stomach enough to squeeze the acid in the esophagus despite proper functioning of the muscle, which is insufficient in this case.


The symptoms usually are presented as: burning pain behind the sternum, burping, sensation of food or acid in the esophagus that might reach to the mouth. The teeth might also be eroded more or less due to acid exposure.


You might want to take your son to a specialist for the upper gastrointestinal tract for a physical examination. An x-ray might easily detect the presence of a diaphragmal hernia. The endoscopy might be able to detect the weak muscle at the entrance of the stomach. The weakness is usually congenital and cannot be treated.


Reducing the production of the stomach acid with medications, as well as avoiding food that stimulates the production is recommended. The medications usually cannot reduce the production so much that it can interfere with the digestion. Many people take proton pump inhibitors for longer periods without side effects or complications. What is important is to keep checking the ulcer in order to be aware of its condition.