Tuesday, June 2, 2009

and the doctor said...

Finally got the to see the doctor re my tummy and this is my story--ignore any thing that mentions cancer as I am ok there- however I do not know how to delete all the info and still make sense--

1. Barrett's Esophagus Barrett's esophagus. Barrett's esophagus (BE) leads to abnormal changes in the cells of the esophagus.About 10% of patients with symptomatic GERD have BE. In some cases, BE develops as an advanced stage of erosive esophagitis. While obesity, alcohol use, and smoking have all been implicated as risk factors for Barrett's esophagus, their role remains unclear. Only the persistence of GERD symptoms indicates a higher risk for BE.Not all patients with BE have either esophagitis or symptoms of GERD. In fact, studies suggest that more than half of people with BE have no GERD symptoms at all. BE, then, is likely to be much more prevalent and probably less harmful than is currently believed.. When BE patients develop abnormalities of the mucus membrane cells lining the esophagus (dysplasia), the risk of cancer rises significantly. There is some evidence that acid reflux may contribute to the development of cancer in BE.2. plus...this is the second problem most likely due to the first problem--dysphagiaIf the esophagus becomes severely injured over time, narrowed regions called strictures can develop, which may impair swallowing (a condition known as dysphagia). Stretching procedures or surgery may be required to restore normal swallowing. Strictures may actually prevent other GERD symptoms, by stopping acid from traveling up the esophagus. I also have neurogical problems in the muscles of the esophagus and this also has too be watch closely in case I lost my breath as I need these muscles to work when I breath-- It has a name too but I lost it some where in my head-3. a H. hernia about 1 inch----there is things that could be done but I told him that I am just not emotionally or physically well enough to make any decisions right now and so I will see him again on September 3 where he will explain my options. He also gave me a new prescription that should help some. My option right now is to ask for prayer. I would like to spend a joyful summer eating and with no pain. I am too thin now and need to build up my strength-- the reason I am so tired is that I am not getting enough calories due to my high metabolism and severe tummy problems .and that is my story- and I will be back soon with another tale.

-hugs from Meme who so appreciates her friends and the prayers

3 comments:

Cora from Hidden Riches said...

Sometimes those explanations and definitions can be so scarey, can't they? I know how painful esophogitis can be, believe me. I thought I was having a heart attack. During chemo and radiation, it was terrible. Like having an acid brick in kmy gut! The doc mentioned Prilocec, and it helped a whole lot!

You might try something like Ensure or the Carnation Instant breakfast drink for the extra calories and nutrition that you need. Easy on the stomach and something you can sip on all day.

I was told that the key to this was eating very small meals, but eating more times during the day. Like 6 to 8 meals instead of just 3.

I'll be praying for you. I know even the stress of thinking about all this can cause the stomach to pump more acid -- a thing you DON'T need!!!!

Robin Lambright said...

As a long time sufferer of Acid Refluz (GERD) myself I know how frustrating it can be. Thankfully mine is managed very well with the over the counter prilosec. I remember how bad I felt years ago and how mny times i was in the dr. office trying to get a handle on it. After altering my diet, removing any and all food culprits the problem still persisted. At the time the medication was by prescription only but now thankful I can purchase it over the counter. I hope you find some relief. I know how difficult it can be when the food we need to make us strong and healthy also makes us feel awful.

Blessings
Robin

Anonymous said...

I too know how painful this can be. I have suffered with stomach problems for about 25 years and lost so much weight years ago and was so weak. I tolerated the Carnation instant breakfast well. You remain in my prayers.