Hi Everyone, New here and have read some updates on corrective surgeries for acid reflux and have a few questions.
I'm a 36 yr old male and I have had Thyroid cancer. I noticed after my Thyroid was removed that my previously 'occassional' Acid Reflux has now become absolutely horrible! I have had an Upper GI Scope and X-ray. I am told that I have no serious damage yet, but that I have a small Hiatal Hernia to boot. I have the constant acid burn and a weak LES. I have had aspiration in my lungs and I am generally becoming more and more miserable. The Aspiration symptoms are so mentally and physically debilitating that I start to think the 'end is near'. For most of you, you know what I'm talking about. I'm on 40mg of Nexium a day and I'm still getting all these symptoms and constant acid reflux.
So here's my question. At my age, and the fact that this onset of GERD is getting worse, should I be proactive and request surgery? I'm looking into Chinese medicine and Naturopathic options in the meantime, but I feel that if I don't look after this it can lead to another cancer. My uncle died of Esophagile cancer and I was at his bedside when he passed. Needless to say, I'm concerned.
I know I have to do my due diligence with respect to eating, testing and all, but I don't want to look back a few years from now and think....If only I have the Nissen operation....
Any comments from those who've had this preceedure? I know that with these blog sites there is a lot of negativity as those who are good usually do't write in to the degree of those with post op issues.
I'm otherwise in great shape. Active, father of two and a healthy weight.
Thanks!
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Bladerunner, it does seem you need to get the reflux under control.
The Nexium (esomeprazole) is a Proton Pump Inhibitor that only controls acid production.
Many people have a hiatus hernis - it can weaken the LES facilitating reflux.
Lifestyle changes are required to stop reflux.
Think of your stomach like a balloon three quarters full of acid and with an open neck. It mustn'y be tipped over, squashed or over-filled.
Lose weight. Avoid tight clothing. Eat small amounts more frequently to avoid over filling your stomach. Do not do exercise that involves bending or crunching the stomach after eating. Do not lie down for at least three hours after eating, Raise the head of your be 6 o 8 inches.
However, if reflux symptoms persist, the fundoplication operation may be right for you. But, as with any surgery, it carries risk.
I had the fundoplication three years ago and it was good for me and I know a number hwo have also benefitted. I also know one person who is in constant pain following her operation.
It is a decsion not to be taken lightly but at the end of the day, it's your decision.