Posted 10/5/2007 12:40 PM (GMT 0)
Welcome Nicky,
I too have had stomach/reflux type problems for yrs, and have been on rx'd meds for approx 7 yrs. Prior to this time frame, I've used baking soda, and tums through the yrs. My Endoscopy findings were similar to yours with the exception of H-Pylori findings which were treated with meds.
Doc indicated that he could not definite determine GERD because of the scar tissue from ppi's over the yrs. I'm wondering if this could've happened with you with your Endo?? Doc indicated that once I was treated for the H-pylori if reflux type symptoms persisted continue taking ppi's and the likely cause would be GERD.
I think that was horrifying, so I really regret not taking any real test prior to taking ppi's. Although, I have no real probably with believing the GERD dx from original GI doc, as I've had all the classic symptoms from long ago, but it would've been nice to have gotten a definitive dx with Endo test.
I too have tried to stop the ppi's with no luck, after 2-3days, I had to restart meds due to symptoms. Maybe I have answered at least one question re: long term usage of ppi's, and I personally believe that there are more, but don't know what they are.....:} But, I just don't know if every individual will be completely free of reflux problems or meds in spite of everything they do to eradicate it.
It is quite obvious from reading that every single individual is not a good candidate for surgery, and some of us are probably genetically predisposed too. Gi docs have indicated that many babies actually suffer these problems. I have accidently run into one mother who was searching for beverages for her very young infant as I was searching for beverages for myself. I offered her help in selecting beverages, as she had no idea what she was up against with this battle, and her child couldn't let her know verbally what bothered her. This mother indicated having some bouts with reflux but wasn't taking any rx'd meds. There are a couple of individuals in my family who suffers with reflux type problems, but not all need rx meds. :{
I hope this might have helped in some way, hang in there.....
Huggs,
Vanessa