Reflux

[kcs_mum]

My 3 yr old has been diagnosed with reflux after a PH study and we have trialed proton pump inhibitors (they did not work) My question is this.... A recent broncoscopy showed a lot of infection and inflamation and also abnormal bubbling in the lungs, (she seemed well at the time, no fevers etc) the resp doctors are wondering if this is due to a fistula or connection between the lungs and the stomach however they have been unable to find one (one of her symptoms is a hugely distended stomach) To me this sounds like more of side effects from the reflux problem and ? aspiration. Does anyone have advise as to weather this may be the case considering what the broncoscopy showed?

Regards KCs Mommy

[marygold]

If you have acid coming up at night, raise the head of your bed about 6 to 8 inches. I have severe GERD and I occasionally have acid come up and then down into my lungs. It doesn't happen too much anymore because I sleep elevated. I bought myself a hospital bed because mine is so severe my head needs to be elevated about 3 feet. This is not typical, many people get by just fine with a couple blocks under their mattress or a foam wedge. Try it and it might help.

Good luck!

[Meli]

I see a pulmonologist for symptoms similar to yours. I developed severe asthma and constant bronchial irritation and chest pain after having severe reflux symptoms for several months. The doctor says I am aspirating stomach "contents" as she calls it-which includes stomach acid. I am still waiting for effective treatment. I take advair for the asthma and it helps some. I take aciphex for the reflux and it helps a little. You probably need to see a gastroenterologist and a pulmonologist who will talk to one another to figure out a course of treatment. Good luck-don't ignore these symptoms-they don't seem to go away on their own.

[Medina]

I am seeking help for my problem.  I am experiencing acid reflux about one to two hours after I lay down at night.  Most times, I have a congestive cough that lasts for a couple of days afterward.  I was wondering about the possibility of aspiration of the acid fluids that were coming up in the throat.  Was wondering the long term effects of the acid on the bronchial area, if left untreated.  Anyone have any comments or similiar experiences?

[Meli]

I have had symptoms for over a year that have been diagnosed as severe GERD. I rarely have heartburn, but cough all night almost every night. It doesn't matter what I eat or avoid eating. I have a severe burning in my mouth, sinuses and ears from this. When I eat any solid food, I cough. Sometimes the cough is so severe I can't eat. My doctor says I am aspirating stomach acid and this is causing asthma. Your daughter's resp problems may be connected to aspiration. My doctor recommends laparascopic fundoplication surgery. This might help your daughter if nothing else does. I haven't had it yet but the problem is driving me crazy, so probably will have it soon. I am planning to post a question on this site to see if anyone has had the surgery and what they think of the results.

[kcs_mum]

Thanks for that. Yes she does cough all the time worse at nights. The gastro doc thinks it may be aspiration, but the respitory docs think its not as a lung wash did not show evidence of food fats etc... it did show infection, lots of secretion, inflamation and the excessive bubbling. Guess im in for a long road....

[JackieG]

I am not a doctor and can only relate my experience as an adult. I do suffer from aspiration, which has led to a chronic cough, lung congestion, and can (but has not yet) lead to pnuemonia. Does your daughter cough frequently? If yes, that may suggest aspiration is a problem. I would discuss the possibility with your Doctor(s).

Good luck.