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NG nose tube test. So Scared any advice

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Posted 6/18/2009 1:44 AM (GMT 0)
I'm facing a Nasogastric tube test coming up on July 1st and I'm really scared to do this. The Doctor wants to do it cause I'm still having a lot of problems swallowing and pain in my side. She wants to check for acid from after the surgery to see if the wrap is doing it's job.

I have had the 48 hour Bravo test done and a ph test done while in the office but never one inserted in my nose. I have real weak swallowing and it hurts me to get the tube down so I'm really nervous about this test.

Bill - Isn't this the test that you refused to do while you were in the hospital ?

Bea - Didn't you say you had this done to ?

Does anybody have any ideas to help me get through this easier. Share your story about the test ? Can I be sedated when it is done or have something to relax me?

Geeze I don't wanna do this. As soon as they said this test I begged for something else with no luck. I got off the phone and had flash backs of the other tests and how hard it was for me and I just bust out crying.

Thanx in advance for any help I can get,

Teala

Posted 6/18/2009 10:27 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Teala,
So sorry that you're facing a test you dread so much. I haven't had the test, so I can't really give you any information, but I wanted to provide my moral support and encouragement. I can just say this. It's mind over matter, Teala. The more you can breathe, and not let your mind take off with dread and worries, the easier it will be to tolerate it.

I've had a colonoscopy and an endoscopy with very little sedation, then an endoscopy with no sedation. Granted, I am unusual in this, and most people want to be knocked out for either of these, I survived to live another day, and believe it or not, they were no big deal. You can do this, Teala. It's not going to be fun, but if you can just get your mind around it and do some self talk, you'll get through it just fine. Whenever I've had a procedure like that, there is always a very skilled nurse, who helps me relax and breathe--talking me through it.

The more you stress over it now, the bigger it gets in your mind and grows bigger and bigger. That's not going to make it any easier. Of course, you can cancel the test and refuse to take it, but you want to find out what's happening, and the test can get you closer to that goal.

I wish I could help you with some first-hand experience, but I can't. I do want to be your cheerleader, and give you lots of encouragement! You can do this Teala!
Good luck,
Denise
Posted 6/18/2009 12:26 PM (GMT 0)

The nose thing huh?

I am getting one soon.

I wouldnt be that concerned. If it gets bad, they will just stop it and you will be done.

From reading online, they did a survey of people getting the transnasal scope done, It was a couple hundred people. They rated it on a scale of 1-10. 10 being the worst, 1 being the best, as far as comfort. The average rating was a 2.......

They numb your nose.

As far as the swalloing, ya it might not be fun, but your gonna have to get it done either way. As soon as your done, your gonna say, that wasnt that bad at all.......

Posted 6/18/2009 2:43 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Teala~

Just wondering is this is the 24hour pH probe or something else? I had the 24 hour one done in December. They do numb your nose, but you still feel pressure. They gave me a cup of water with a straw to drink to help get the tube down. My eyes watered, but it was not painful...uncomfortable yes. Once in, the only thing I felt was the tube down my throat. This was uncomfortable every once in a while when I ate and drank, but I would not say painful.

The only issue I ran into, was that I asked for the tube to be placed in my right nostril (because it's bigger) and it would not go down. Turns out I have cysts in my right nostril. They went to the left side, and it went down no problem.

Remember to breathe, close your eyes when they start and just listen to the nurse or person placing the tube. Thats what I did and it was fine. I think it took about 10-15 seconds to get it down, then it was done. But I was worried about it before hand.

Good Luck!

Jodee
Posted 6/18/2009 2:49 PM (GMT 0)

Teala,

I am so sorry you are needing to have the test  and I understand your anxiety.  This would be one test that would freak me out just because I don't like the sound of it but if it is going to help you then let us try to get you through it.  :)

I feel you are having an increase in anticipatory anxiety. Anticipatory anxiety is an emotional state of "what-will-happen-next" fears. This is a normal and understandable reaction to your fear of the unknown, the NG tube test. There are ways to manage and cope with these feelings.  Talking usually helps. Sharing your feelings with friends, family and here in the forum are great ways to cope.

When you are feeling the anxiety try deep breathing, muscle relaxation, visualization (imagining peaceful scenes), and/or listening to soothing music.

While we can't always control what happens to us, we can always control what we say to ourselves. It's important to keep things in perspective. Talk to yourself in reasonable ways. Ask yourself "how likely is my fear?" Remind yourself that you have coped before during other challenging times. Don't just dwell on the negative but consciously look for things you can appreciate every day. Feel the sun on your face :)

Teala, my friend, it is understandable that during times of high stress and uncertainty emotions run high. Just know you have all of us to support you and to care for you.  Sending you many warm hugs.

I wish you peace,

Kitt

Posted 6/18/2009 6:10 PM (GMT 0)
Denise, Jodee, Motox and Kitt - I seriously want to Thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for your encouraging words. It has really helped ease some of my fears (at least for now )

This is the 24 hour test Jodee. Thank you for sharing your experience with me. Do you have any issues swallowing ? I have a nose ring also so I hope they can go in the side that doesn't have one. I wonder if they had to put the tube in the side with the ring if you could put it back in after the tube is in place ?

Denise - I'm amazed you did those tests while not being knocked out!!! I'm the opposite, give me what ever you can to make me not even remember the test... LOL

Motox - when are you getting your test done ? I'm normally not so bothered with tests and such but I think that it's all just adding up on me with having so many things done in such a little amount of time.

I will try to breathe and relax when I start getting worked up about it. Which is happening ALOT lately.

I have been dealing with so much lately I'm starting to get overwhelmed. I had my doctors app yesterday with my family doc and I just totally lost it. It made me feel stupid and weak which I'm normally a very strong woman and hold things in. To make a long story and doctor's appointment short, I'm now on Paxal. I hope this helps me coup with everything so I will go ahead with the tests.

I know I can tell them I don't want it done but I want them to help me figure out what is wrong more.

I really want you all to know how much it means to me that your here for me. I have the deepest respect for you all.

Teala

Posted 6/18/2009 10:20 PM (GMT 0)

Teala,

The last thing you are is stupid or  weak.  I cannot tell you how many times I cried in the Doctors office before I was even able to say why I was there.  Give the Paxil time to work...................it may take up to 4-6 weeks for the full therapuetic effect to kick in but you should start to feel better soon so believe, my friend.  You will make it.

Hugs

Kitt

Posted 6/18/2009 10:38 PM (GMT 0)
Teala,
Just remember that all your friends here are rooting for you and sending positive vibes your way! This will be one more challenge, and you will be stronger for it. You should not feel badly at all for "losing it" with your family doctor. That's what they're for! The bad thing would be to hide your feelings and not let him/her help you get through this!

Whenever you need some cheers of encouragement and support, just let us know!
Take care and think positive thoughts!
Denise
Posted 6/18/2009 10:48 PM (GMT 0)
Teala~

I did not have trouble swallowing, if anything I could feel the tube in my throat. So when I swallowed it felt like a lump in my throat. Nothing painful, just uncomfortable. Not sure about the nose ring. If you dont want to take it out, have them try the opposite side.

And, please, like Kitt said, you are NOT stupid and weak. I can not tell you how many times I too have just cried...because this in a long frustrating process to get answers and treatment for that family and friends do not always understand. Which is why we are all here... because we are all in similar boats and know what each other is going through.

Like I said, remember to breathe, cry if you need to, come here and vent, remember you are not alone.

Jodee
Posted 6/18/2009 11:47 PM (GMT 0)
Teala -
Sorry I havne't gotten here sooner. This is the wired PH test. It IS the best test to see if you are having acid or bile reflux. The tube is much smaller than the one for the swallowing function test. IT is WAY easier to get down and it isn't nearly as annoying as the other one and is no where near the size of a regular NG tube that I was refusing and that Bea had after surgery. I have had a coupe of these and yes they are annoying when you eat or drink, but not painful.
I am sure you already did the motility test and that thing is way worse than this. You can do it! I did say I wouldn't have another one done, but then again I am a big baby! I wouldn't think your nose ring would have any effect on this. They will ask you which side you prefer and also check to see which side is closed up at the time. Believe it or not, your sinuses switch about every few hours or so as to which side is closed up more. The little things you find out when you have sinus surgery. That's another story all together. If you feel like it please email me if you want. After having the surgery twice, this is nothing. I am surprised you haven't had this already since most surgeons I have talked to don't believe the bravo is accurate.
Again..This is NO WHERE near the size of a regular NG tube.

Take care,
Bill
Posted 6/19/2009 1:21 AM (GMT 0)
I want to thank you all again for the support.

Kitt - Thank you so much for everything. Do you know if Paxil is any good ? Is there something else better ? I have to set up a app to go back to my family doc in 2 weeks to discuss how things are with the new medicine. Is 2 weeks enough time for it to have some effects, good or bad ?

Jodee - It's comforting to hear from someone who has had it done. I really appreciate your advice.

Denise - You certainly do have a way to ease people's fears. Do you think you could come with me when I have it done ? ... lol

Bill  - I did not know that about the sinus' but I do suffer from sinus headaches that will turn into migraines if I don't stop them .

What did they do for sinus surgery? The pressure in my eyes and forehead is unbearable at times.

I'm thrilled to hear that it isn't as big of a tube, that sounds reassuring to me and I'm trying like crazy to not dwell on it getting done. 

I did have another ph study with swallowing the tube before the redo that wasn't as bad as the first but still hurt. Again that was by the throat and only while I was in the office.

My fear comes from my first test with the wireless bravo. The doctor was rushed and very rude and hurt me more then necessary. I think if he would have took his time it wouldn't have been so bad with my weak swallowing I just couldn't swallow the tube at the rate he wanted me to.

You all are the best ! Thanx for being here for me ,

Teala

Posted 6/19/2009 3:11 AM (GMT 0)

Hi teala,

 When I woke up from my surgery It was already inserted when I awoke. I was not too happy with it. They said they had to get all the sludge from out of my stomach.Once my stomach juices showed up "yellow" they removed the tube which is not an easy task.It honestly feels like they are pulling globs of organs wit it.But then this is my experience. Yours may be different. They didnt use anything to numb me and i think the resident who did it disliked me or maybe I did sumthing to sum1 in my lifetime and this was my payback. I took it like a man LOL. I can reassure you that I was happy to be alive so if it meantt hat stupid tube I had to do what I had to do. I have ekids and grandkids. Sorry if i am very blunt and clear.This is my experience thouh you may get novacaine or something to ease this????

Good luck

Bea

Posted 6/19/2009 3:14 AM (GMT 0)
Teala,
what I had was the NG Tube not what your having. So that was my experience with the NG tube.
Goodluk
b
Posted 6/19/2009 3:59 AM (GMT 0)
Teala -I had the regular NG tube after my first go round like Bea did. What they want to do is a wired PH study. It is more accurate than the Bravo, but usually they do it with a motility study to make sure they know where the LES is and how far to place it. It is supposed to be exactly 5 inches from the LES. IF it is too far either way it can give false readings. The tube is about the size of am ink pens ink liner, so it is pretty small.
The sinus surgery I had was for a deviated septum and basically roto rootering my turbinates. I would get nose bleeds very easily and always had bad sinuses. When they were trying to see if they could help me with sleep apnea the ENT decided my tonsils needed to go, I had a very bad deviated septum and my sinuses were very clogged up. I knew all 3. I was suppoesed to get my tonsils out at 15, but chickened out. Bad idea, they had to come out anyway and hurt very bad at 32. My daughter had hers removed 9 day before me, same surgeon, and was up and around in a few days. Me, I was in pain for 2 weeks and had to go to his office at 2am about day 8 because I was bleeding profusely. Hey, there might be a pattern here. Anyways, mu daughter was a strep carrier and we couldn't get rid of it and mine were as he called them "cheesy tonsils", they were full of holes and nasty stuff. Then came the deviated septum and turbinates. I don't get sinus infections hardly at all anymore. The nose bleeds have stopped and my headaches are gone. Well they were until last year. I started to get some sinus issues again last fall. He said I might have to have it redone once in a while if the turbinates got too bad again. It is still nowhere as bad as it was.
I have my wife to thank for all the surgeries I have had though I think. Everytime she has one surgery I manage to have 2, 3 or 4. It's not fair. Let's see. She had her thyroid removed and I had tonsils, deviated septum, and turbinates done. She had an ovary removed and I had my gallbladder removed and then the first Nissen, a right knee cleaned out and a nodule on my lung removed. Then she decides to have a hysterectomy and I have to have the Nissen redone and end up with a 3 weeks vacation at the hospital. I just realized something. Either I have broken her spell and won't have anymore surgery or I am still in for more shortly. I did almost have to go back when the leaking started. If my surgeon wouldn't have listened to the others I would have, so I guess that might be the other surgeries I should have had. Is that goofy or what?
Well once again I have completely gotten of track and rambled away. Teala. please don't worry about this test. It will help them figure out what is going on.
Take care,
Bill

Ps. Just as a side note. We were comparing scars and such...I now have 15 on my torso to her 5, plus 3 more on my knee. She keeps saying hers are longer so they count as more....Maybe I'll buy that.; )
Posted 6/19/2009 4:35 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you Bill and Bea. I just got my orders from the doctor today in the mail it is the 24 ph test and Esophageal Manometry tests.

So the 24 hours is to monitor the acid if any and the other to check my swallowing, Right?

Bea -  I appreciate your bluntness. I want to know what I'm facing from all aspects, but what you had sounds much much worse. It's just awful how much a bad experience with a test can really work you up for that test in the future.

Bill - I know what you speaking of with the scars. I have like 13 on my tummy from wraps, appendix and 2 ectopic pregnancies. It looks like I got stabbed but a good sun tan helps cover it up.. LOL I think you and your wife should call a draw on your scar contest and not have any more surgerys.

I'm hoping by the time I get the tests done that the Paxil will have kicked in some to help me relax.

You all are so awesome. Big hugs to you all,

Teala

Posted 6/19/2009 7:04 AM (GMT 0)
Teala -
The Manomertry is to check the function of your esophagus. IT will also let them know exactly where your LES is. As I said before, it needs to be 5 inches from the LES. The manometry is the worst part. I hated having to only swallow once and wait. It doesn't sound that hard, but it is for me.
I agree about me and her calling it a draw. I am tired of having holes put in me. That's why I was almost crying when they were saying I was heading back to the OR. Nope not me! I was thinking " take someone else I am fine right here."
Didn't they dilate you a while back? I sure hope they figure it out quickly. You have been through enough in a short time.

Take care,
Bill
Posted 6/19/2009 11:23 AM (GMT 0)
Teala,
Oh...it's the wired PH monitor...now that I've had. It is not AT ALL bad. The manometry will be your bigger challenge. There is such a reflex that makes you want to swallow that it's difficult to keep from swallowing between their required swallowing. They're measuring your swallowing reflex. It's a critical test for potential Nissen patients, because swallowing issues pre-surgery will lead to swallowing issues post surgery.

I've read posts where people say how horrible the manometry is...don't believe them. Yes, it's uncomfortable and a challenge, but it is not all that bad. The key is to visualize and do relaxation breathing. If you have a good team doing it, you'll have somebody relaxing you and helping you breathe. I did. Honestly, it is very "doable"...you'll manage it just fine. Be sure to do lots of positive self-talk beforehand. If you spend your time worrying and thinking that it's going to be horrible, it'll be all that much more difficult. Lots of people have had the procedure and they've all lived to talk about it! This too will pass.

After the manometry, you won't mind the PH monitor at all. It's a smaller wire. Once they get it through your nose and down your throat, you'll hardly know it's there. Seriously...no big deal at all. I've had it twice, and would do it tomorrow without a second thought. It's just not at all that bothersome. Sure, you'd rather not have it, and are glad to get rid of it, but you won't find it bad at all.

Just remember that these tests are being done to find out what's going on and making you uncomfortable. They're for a great purpose!
Keep a positive attitude and you'll do just fine!
We're here for you!
Denise
Posted 6/24/2009 4:19 AM (GMT 0)
Bill - Sorry I didn't notice your questions earlier. Yes, I was dilated in April and it wasn't really of any help at all.

I still struggle so much to swallow it's horrid. I'm getting so worn out with everything that's going on and my having to continue to test and stuff is awful. It's becoming very overwhelming to me.

I just keep praying that they will be able to find out whats wrong and fix it sooner then later and I know your one that definantly understands that Bill ; )

Thank you for caring to ask,

Teala

Posted 6/24/2009 2:05 PM (GMT 0)

Teala,

Oh my I am so sorry for taking so long to see that question.  Yes Paxil is a good drug for many people.  When using one of the AD meds it sometimes depends on the person.  I know for me I have had to try many different meds to find one that works for me.

Others find the right med on the first try.  I hope this is the case for you.

Please know I am thinking of you and shoot me an email if you have any questions I miss. 

Hugs to you sweetie,

Kitt

Posted 7/2/2009 2:36 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Everyone - So I'm in the middle of the 24 hour testing right now.

I had my appointment at 8:30 this morning and through me crying and struggling the whole time the doctor was able to do the manometry test and get the nose tube in place.

My throat is very sore right now as well as the nostril that the tube is in.

I have to be very still because once I start moving my head much I have episodes of gagging that are awful until I can manage to get it under control.

I got a can of throat spray from the doc that when I get really irritated I can shoot some in my throat and it does help for a while. Also Chloraseptic is helpful to.

My nose is constantly dripping and the tube in my throat feels like it is hanging up.

I have gotten a few bites of soup down and get this crunchy Cheetos. LOL For some reason the Cheetos are easier for me to eat, go figure.

I'm not looking forward to trying to sleep with the tube in and box thing tonight but Tomorrow can't come soon enough for me.

Wish me luck, Teala

Posted 7/2/2009 3:36 AM (GMT 0)
Teala -
I understand completely. I told them I wasn't doing this test ever again. I understand it is necessary, but I won't do it again at least not conscious anyhow. I never thought of the chloreseptic spray before. That would probably help a lot. I hope they get to the bottom of this soon for you. I sure do know your frustration with all the tests. It will be over soon.

Take care,
Bill
Posted 7/2/2009 5:03 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Bill - I haven't spoke to you lately. I hope that your doing well and coming along in your recovery, which I'm sure will take some time.

I know both of us have been through the wringer and think it's high time for things to be done now and all be good huh? 

I certainly didn't think I was going to be doing this test but they want to check for acid levels to make sure things are ok in there with the wrap.

I have strictures (sp?) and was told that it isn't unheard of for some ppl with the problems I have to be diliated a couple times every month.. Yikes

They spoke of burning the damaged tissue in my esophagus so it can regenerate good tissue. That isn't in stone but they did talk to me about it. Guess I'll have to wait to see.

It seems this day is taking for ever to end :(

Take care, Teala

Posted 7/2/2009 12:07 PM (GMT 0)
Teala, honey, I'm sorry this is so hard on you!  cry

I guess I thought this test was going to be the 24 (or 48) hr manometry; it's a little different than the 24 hr ph, the wire/tube/cathode is thicker, and I certainly had the same problem with the drippy nose, oh that is such a tender spot for me!

I can say that the impedance manometry was more difficult than the ph, and the best part was when it was done!  So, this is different, they're actually using an NG tube?

Just when we think we've got this stuff licked, it just keeps coming back doesn't it!!!!  Hang in there girl!, I'm thinking that we've all (and I mean ALL!) done our bit for the advancement of gastro-intestinal science and if they're not going to start paying us than we should just resign tongue

In the meantime, I hope you feel better soon my friend!

Janice

Posted 7/2/2009 7:51 PM (GMT 0)
Teala -
Hang in there. It is a great relief when they remove that dang thing. Then you can blow your nose too! I have the same issues with my nose. I hate anything around my nose let alone in it. I have heard of them freezing some areas to get rid of bad tissue and generate good tissue. They talked about it for my Barretts. I have to agree with Janice that we have done plenty for the GI science advancement. If I don't start seeing some payment I too am resigning!

Take care,
Bill
Posted 7/7/2009 1:07 AM (GMT 0)
Teala -
How's things been going? Have you gotten the results yet? Hope you were able to enjoy the holiday weekend.

Take care,
Bill
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