esophageal motility disorder

[nancy]

I have been dx with an esophageal motility disorder.  In 1995, I had a biliary diversion, a Belsey fundoplication, and a highly selective vagotomy.  In 1998, I had a subtotal gastrectomy.
    At this point, my symptoms are severe nausea,severe heartburn(reflux), epigastric pain,and very early satiety.  I am 6' tall and weigh about 118#.  I have been on TPN multiple times,but never seem to gain more than 2-4 # over 6 weeks.  My most recent tests, Dec 99, show 100% gastroparesis of my remnent, low esophageal amplitude, and a low functioning wrap.  My symptoms are much worse than my test results ie, the ph probe was normal but I am in insense pain even trying to swallow water.
   My doctors say that there is nothing that can be done sugically or medically.
   I am 44 years old and have 3 young children and work full time(veterinarian).
Any suggestions??   Thanks, Nancy

[HFHSm.D.-Gastro-rf]

Dear nancy,
The complexity of your problem is evident even from the brief description of your symptoms.  IF maximal medical therapy has failed, then longterm TPN may be needed.  It will be possible to maintain and even increase your weight with sufficient amounts of intravenous feeding.  Given your low weight, this issue should be discussed with your doctors in the near future.

We would be happy to see you at the Division of gastroenterology at henry ford health System in Detroit.  You can make an appoinment with Dr. Fogel, one of our experts in gastroenterology, by calling (3130916-2408.

[Carol D.]

Nancy -

I'm sorry to hear about the problems and pain you are having.  I'm not a medical professional, but I have found that my reflux pain was relieved by 1-2 tablespoons of fresh squeezed ginger juice first thing in the morning before eating anything else. I did this for a good 2-3 months. It's very strong and at first may be difficult to get used to, but if you can handle it, it might help.  I understand you've had surgeries and other esophageal problems that this "remedy" may not address, but I believe the ginger heals inflammation (and has been used in Chinese medicine for centuries), if that is playing any part at all in the pain you are feeling.

If you are interested in finding out more about alternative treatments, you might also try searching and/or posting a question at this website I've recently come across:

http://www.bcn.net/~stoll/

Apparently Dr. Stoll combines conventional allopathic medicine with alternative treatment with good results.

Hope all this might be of some tiny bit of help.

Peace -

Carol D.

[christy3169]

A related discussion, esophagael motility dissorder was started.