Gerd

Hi, Im a 32 year old female who has just undergone a HIDA scan and ERCP, billery manometry. The Sphincter of oddi and the controlling muscles have been cut and a stent placed in temporarily to reduce ther risk of pancrititas. It would appear i have no stones  in my gaul bladder however the pressure reading i assume taken from the Sphincter of Oddi was over 100. Im not sure if this is a high reading or not. I have been told im to have my gaul bladder removed. The problem im concerned about is that i still find swallowing a problem even though my food seems to pass alot easier now, also i have intense pain in my neck and this travels up into my head, is this part of my condition which im told is type 2 GERD? It has taken 6 years of constant trips to see my GP before a different doctor finally sent me to see a constultant and a professor at the London Clinic. I will see my consultant again in a week or so but i would be interested in what your opinion is. Also my grandmother died from cancer of the esophogas is this relevent? And could my condition have any other effect on organs such as the liver as i often look rather yellow around my eyes. Last question if i never saw a consultant what would the outcome have been without surgery or medication?. Many thanks, amanda.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You may want to consider further testing to evaluate the upper GI tract - which can cause GERD as well as difficulties swallowing.  Reasonable first steps would include an upper GI series and/or upper endoscopy.  Any typie of stricture or anatomical abnormality can cause these symptoms.

To definitively rule out GERD, a 24-hr pH study would have to be performed.  This can be done with esophageal motility, where any type of motility disorder can lead to the symptoms.

As for the "yellow" look around the eyes - jaundice would be the most common cause.  A blood test to evaluate the liver function as well as the bilirubin level is suggested.

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.
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