Len,
I was in the same boat about 2 years ago. Exactly.
Sounds like you are on the right path with treatment.
The worst is over, believe me.

I am eating just about anything I want now.
Still have trouble with oranges real sour. Also, I need to stay away from real real hot stuff like Thai food etc. Other than that its all good.

Dry mouth, oh yea. Water bottle with me at all times, for sure. Glad to be alive, you betcha.

Look at the positive. Enjoy every breath.

Drop me a line if you need to talk.

Robert.