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Gastroenterology  (Expert Forum)
 | 
Congenital band removal continued issues
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.

Congenital band removal continued issues

by weirdsymptoms, Aug 23, 2005 12:00AM
At age 21 I had a congenital band removed that was wrapped around the outside of my instestines - it was only found through exploratory surgery - no diagnostic test showed it. I was sick a year 1/2 before surgery with severe vomiting, reflux and intermitent syncope (passing out). After surgery for the past seven years my eating and overall digestion has improved significantly.



I still have reflux in which I take Aciphex for (works well) and get an abdominal ultrasound every other year. I have a weird reaction still after I eat sometimes that makes my whole body feel as if it is shutting down. It seems that certain foods trigger this reaction. It's difficult for me to breathe, my face turns very pale and usually I end up throwing up. I have been tested for food allergies - but no findings. This is a very real systematic-type physical reaction.



Is there some type of nervous system issue with my stomach that could be causing this response? Can reflux be so severe that it is causing me to almost pass out? Not sure how to pursue this issue short-term and long-term with my doctor. Any suggestions?      

by Kevin Pho, MD, Aug 23, 2005 12:00AM
Eating food that is associated with nausea and flushing may be suggestive of carcinoid syndrome.  This is a relatively rare condition, but certainly can be considered.  The test to evaluate for this would be a urine specimen looking at the metabolite 5-HIAA.  



More common diseases can be evaluated with an upper GI series or upper endoscopy.  An ultrasound can be considered to evaluate the liver and gallbladder.  



These options can be discussed with your personal physician.



Followup with your personal physician is essential.



This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.



Kevin, M.D.

http://www.straightfromthedoc.com
Member Comments

by astros18, Aug 24, 2005 12:00AM
To: weirdsymptoms
Sometimes a panic or anxiety problem can cause reactions like this. Do you ever get an attack when you are not eating and what specific foods trigger such an attack?

by weirdsymptoms, Aug 25, 2005 12:00AM
No, have not had any type of anxiety problem or panic problem.

by ozark, Aug 26, 2005 12:00AM
have they tested you for gastric emptying problems or dumping syndrome?
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