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GERD & Acid Reflux
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Posted 3/4/2016 11:50 PM (GMT 0)
I used to post on this site a regular basis especially back in 2013 when I was facing Nissen-wrap, hiatal hernia repair surgery. Over two years later I am happy to report that the surgery is still the best medical decision I ever made. My life is so much better and free of reflux. I used end up in the ER for aspirating stomach acid into my trachea, resulting in spasms and acute pain and acid burns. Since the surgery, I can eat whatever I want without heartburn. I take no medication for heartburn, but I would still caution all to moderate consumption of spicy foods. Too much spice is never a good thing.

To those facing surgery or recovering from surgery, I will tell that recovery is longer than other surgeries, but the end result is worth it. Give your body time to heal and adapt. Your body will make the adjustment and troublesome symptoms will eventually disappear. My long-term symptom has been gas. Because the LES is now tight and secure, I burp far less so the gas has to be eliminated somehow. Gas-X or other similar tablets can help with this.

I'm careful not to eat too much. It's important that you still take of yourself and monitor your diet. Always take good care of your stomach. Good luck to those of you facing or recovering from surgery. I was told to think of the surgery as a marathon and not a sprint-- good advice.

Ian
Posted 3/5/2016 6:50 PM (GMT 0)
Wow, Ian, so great to ready your post. There are many of us here facing this surgery soon -- I am having my giant paraesophageal hernia repaired and patched with mesh, along with a full 360-degree Nissan fundoplication this Friday. I've been spending a lot of time on this board, asking questions and learning from the experiences of others. Everyone has a story to tell and a different recovery but some key findings are helpful. I'm confident in my surgeon who says that all of my issues -- shortness of breath, severe anemia, exhaustion, persistent reflux and heartburn, sinus issues, trouble swallowing, etc. -- will be resolved or, at minimum, seriously improved by the surgery. Still, it's surgery and not something to be taken lightly.

I'm nervous but eager to see what happens once on the other side. From everything I've read here, it really can be a life-changing surgery. I know this comes with some lifestyle modifications and that patience is necessary. I'm going to be on pins and needles until Friday, though...

Thanks for sharing!
Posted 3/5/2016 7:00 PM (GMT 0)
Hey Ian, be sure to also share your story on the post, "For successful fundoplication members" started by Pat Tall. It's on the first page of this board. Pat has kept the post going for quite a while and it's helpful for pre-surgery folks like me to read through all of the successes. I'm sure Pat and others would be happy to hear your story.
Posted 3/6/2016 4:53 AM (GMT 0)
CaliGal- I definitely noticed fewer sinus infections. I has them a lot, but now they are rare. I also had problems with reflux, trouble swallowing etc... The surgery eliminate most symptoms. I did have some fatigue, however, nearly a 16 months later, I had my gallbladder removed which also contributed to some of my other symptoms. Having my gallbladder removed eliminated the fatigue. My GB was inflamed and diseased. Once it was gone, I felt great. Thanks for letting me know about the other post thread regarding success stories. PS: I was scared to death on the day of my surgery, but I faced my fear.

Ian
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