Difficult Diagnosis

[Lazlo]

Since having my gallbladder removed in June by laproscopic cholecystectomy I have had continuing, worsening, and debilitating health problems. Primary symptoms include pains in the region of my liver (most), pancreas, and kidneys (occasional), extreme fat intolerance, continued weight loss despite eating (since June I have lost 35 pounds - over 20% of my body mass), appetite loss (although I am very good about eating on a regular schedule to prevent additional weight loss)severe fatigue, itchy (salty) eyes and hands, difficulty digesting “normal sized” meals, occasional nausea, and occasional pressure on the esophagus. I also had severe chest pain and difficulty breathing beginning 9 days following laproscopic cholecystectomy that persisted approximately 2.5 weeks. So far I have had numerous blood and fecal tests, a colonscopy, and endoscopy/biopsies.  My bloodwork has come back in the normal ranges. Fecal fat indicated normal results (no surprise since I consume less than 6 grams of fat per day). I've tested negative for parasites, giardia, and H. pylori. Colonoscopy was normal and biopsies of the biliary duct were normal. Although the radiologist said my ultrasound was "normal", the technician disagreed and definitely saw a lesion in the area of my liver. I have a CT scan scheduled at the end of the month. Of course I'm wondering (as is my gastroenterologist) what's wrong?  Could it be complications from the surgery? Sphincter of Odi dysfunction? Liver or pancreatic disease?

[cjl]

Since your symptoms started after your surgery, it's probably connected.  Bile ducts can be damaged during a cholecystectomy, and as you know there are always risks during any surgery.  Your extreme weight loss is troubling, and most likely the source of your fatigue. Have you tried supplementing your diet with Boost or Ensure? These are good sources of vitamins and protein and may improve your energy level. If you're running a fever, make sure to tell your doctor. Keep a daily journal of your diet and symptoms. By doing this, you may be able to help piece together some important details for your doctor. I hope you feel better soon!

[grrrrr8]

Not to worry you, but my mom died as a result of many of your symptoms since her gallbladder was removed. WHATEVER YOU DO, DON'T TAKE "WE'RE NOT SURE WHAT'S WRONG" AS AN ANSWER. We did, and we're paying for it now. If you don't get an answer from one Doctor, ask for a referal to see another. Again, don't give up and keep us posted as to what they find.

[Baseball_Mom]

I agree with grrrrr8.  You have to be your own advocate for your health care.  You know your body better than anyone else.  If you don't get the answer you want, then find another doctor who will listen to you.  I have had problems since my gall bladder surgery in April 2001. It has taken me all the time to find a doctor who felt that I would benefit from having an ERCP with Sphincterotomy done.  I am scheduled for this procedure on the 14th of November.  I will keep this forum posted as to how things turn out.  I wish you the best of luck and hope you get to feeling better soon.  I certainly feel your pain.  Have a GREAT day!

[Lazlo]

Thanks all for your input! I have a CT scan next week and hopefully I'll have some more clues.  At this point I think I'm looking at anything from surgical complications to cancer. My current gastroenterologist even suggested a foreign object. Sad how this would likely be the simplest solution to my problems. Regarding the ensure and Boost, the fat content would kill me. I am seriously "allergic" to fat these days.  I have started forcing myself to eat a lot to try to curb the weight loss and last month I only lost 4 pounds (yahoo!). I am also in the process of changing medical health providers which should should put me in better hands. Thanks for all the support!

[grrrrr8]

Good news on the weight loss. (if that could be good news). Keep us updated on your condition. I hope things continue to improve.