Why do I have a bitter taste in mouth on waking up?

Q: I am a 35 years old male. I get up in the morning with a thick and bitter taste in my mouth. In fact, every time I sleep and get up I have this taste. My bowel movements are not regular and stools are usually hard. Please advise.

A:You probably have nocturnal reflux of acid and a functional bowel disorder with idiopathic constipation. However, I would recommend some initial blood tests including a coeliac screen. If everything is normal on the blood tests, then an evening dose of an acid suppressing medication, and some Fybogel should be the initial treatment to try.