Endo update

[monotreme]

Well, Craig had the repeat endo today to repair the stricture.  The GI doc said that the inflammation is healed but the ruts formed from the erosion appear to be permanent damage.  He also saw a suspected area of Barretts esophagus and biopsied it.  

Unfortunately this is from all of the reflux from the past year.  None of the doctors took it seriously.  Also, the doctor said that they had a hard time keeping his airway open during the procedure, in which he was sedated.  And the doctor suggested a sleep study since he was also snoring very loudly!!!!!  

So for all of you with acid reflux, get some help via meds.

Elaine

[Quixotic1]

A little clarification on the B12 issue:  Lowered stomach acid inhibits B12 "absorption"  from the diet or supplements.  So you do not absorb the B12 in your diet.  The most effective way around this is to get monthly B12 injections.  Short of that you should take a sublingual B12 in the form of methylcobalmin (instead of the usual cyanocobalmin).  It is better absorbed, and more active in the body.  Levels should be foolwed by your doc.

There are two categories of acid reducer meds.  One is definitely more effect than the other.  the better one in this case would be the proton-pump inhibitor.  The other is an H2 blocker.  I'd have to look them up to comment on which are which, but for example

Pepcid - H2

Prevacid - proton pump

Send Craig my regards.  I know he doesn't want a sleep study.

Quix

[monotreme]

One problem with reduced acid in the stomach is that in lowers B12 production.  So you need to supplement with B12.

Outside of feeling like he has a scratchy throat, Craig is feeling better today.

Thanks everyone for your support and kind words.

Elaine

[jensequitur]

I think my dad takes prilosec - the other medication gave him horrible abdominal pains, but prilosec works pretty well.  There's no issue with reduced acid in the stomach, right?  I've always heard that it can encourage ulcer growth.

[wonko]

I agree that lifestyle changes can support what the medications do, but I don't think even the best intentions and choices can replace the meds.  Thanks for sharing your rotation method, it sounds better than what I've ended up doing in the past:  getting frustrated and stopping all reflux meds. until the problem returns in a nasty way.

I developed a stricture and occasional swallowing problems when I was around 25, and have had odd unpredictable off and on reflux for as long as I can remember.  

Elaine, I hope the procedure brings Craig some relief and that he has success controlling and improving the situation with the medications.  

[Sarahsmom46]

How is Craig feeling after the procedure?  We will wait anxiously to hear about the biopsy results.  Thankfully a doctor finally took it seriously.  

You are absolutely right - Acid reflux is no joke and can cause problems more quickly than people imagine.  Medications help, but it really just covers up the real problem.  We must make lifestyle changes too or else we'll be on these drugs for life.  I have been on nexium for years and it tends to stop working, for me, after 2-3 months.  Then I switch to Prilosec for until it stops working, Zantac until it stops working, and then start back over with nexium.  It is a viscous cycle.

Please tell Craig hello for us.

Julie

[monotreme]

Craig is on one Prilosec a day and he will need it for the rest of his life.  The GI doctor wanted two a day but this gave Craig diarrhea, which the GI doc did say could happen.

The doctor's choice is Prilosec and he said that heals almost every case of reflux he has seen.  
Elaine

[jensequitur]

Acid reflux can be a real pain!  I guess it's time for yet another med to help heal the damaged esophagus...  How many is Craig on right now, if you don't mind me asking?  Personally I'm trying to keep my list very small, as I can't afford very much.

[essdipity]

This has been such a tough year for you and your family. I do hope the esophagus stuff settles down and that Craig gets a long calm and painfree period. You're always in my thoughts and prayers.

Happy Thanksgiving from ess

[doni54]

Hi Elaine,

Thanks for the update, I'm sure both you and Craig are glad that is over.  I hope this helps Craig and that he will feel better.

You are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Happy Thanksgiving!!
doni