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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
chronic vomiting; taking Baclofen for hiccups following partial gastrectomy
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.
chronic vomiting; taking Baclofen for hiccups following partial gastrectomy
by Valerie1951, Apr 23, 2007 12:00AM
My brother (age 55) is recovering from surgery for cancer of the duadenum in August 2006. He had the whipple procedure, with about half of his stomach, and 2/3 of his pancreas removed, as well as his gall bladder and half of his bile duct. He had severe hiccups after the surgery and was prescribed Baclofen. He is still taking Baclofen (10 mg every 4 hours) and has been for about 7 months. His hiccups are under control, but he can keep almost no food down, and vomits many times a day. He has been vomiting daily since he got out of the hospital. He is so hoarse he can hardly talk. Do you think the Baclofen could be causing the vomiting? When he doesn't take it the hiccups come back. He has other meds but he says he is not taking them--he is too discouraged and overwhelmed.
We appreciate any advice you can give us. Thank you!
We appreciate any advice you can give us. Thank you!
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Apr 23, 2007 12:00AM
, Apr 23, 2007 12:00AM
This may be a reaction or complication from the surgery. It is also possible that the Baclofen may be causing side effects. There are other medications that can help hiccups, such as thorazine.
I would look at the upper digestive tract with an endoscopy to rule out structural causes. Motility testing, a 24-hr pH study or gastric emptying tests are more specialized tests can be considered if the endoscopy is negative.
These options should be discussed with a gastroenterologist.
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.
kevinmd_
I would look at the upper digestive tract with an endoscopy to rule out structural causes. Motility testing, a 24-hr pH study or gastric emptying tests are more specialized tests can be considered if the endoscopy is negative.
These options should be discussed with a gastroenterologist.
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.
kevinmd_
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Let your brother know that he is not the only one with this awful side effect and I'm glad to see that the med's have helped him, I wish my husband could fine one that would put this side effect to bed as it doesn't help the fight when you feel so uncomfortable all the time .