Questions about GERD

[Banded14yr 2]

I have a friend that was banded in July. She was doing fine until about 4 weeks post op and ate some crackers. She ended up having pain and has had problems with pain (while eating) ever since.

She's had an upper GI, a Barium Swallow test and an Endoscopy with all tests coming back negative. We're now thinking that she might be experiencing GERD

If anyone has been diagnosed with GERD, what are the treatments for it? Does it ever go away, or is this something you continually deal with?

Thanks!

[GeezerSue 7]

Tricia...GERD-and-the-band is a huge issue. The band tends to CURE reflux in those who have it pre-banding but can CAUSE reflux in those who never had it.

Many people learn to live with it and treat it with proton pump inhibitors, elevating the bed, not eating after a certain hour, avoiding spicy things, etc. Others--myself included--have decided that it made more sense to get rid of the CAUSE of the problem* and have moved on to other surgeries.

Sue

(*I had more than just GERD, but it was one of my first problems with the band.)

[laraestokes 0]

I never had reflux until I had my band. I take Nexium daily and won't eat anything after 8:00 p.m. This helps me. I can still drink milk and Water in the evening, but nothing to eat. I tried all the over counter meds, and they don't seem to work as well, but to some it is worth a try?

[paula 4]

Tricia, GERD/reflux is no fun I continue to deal with this issue MANY nights.

Here is a thread I posted many moons ago that gives good details on GERD

http://lapbandtalk.com/showthread.php?t=4154

hope your friend finds relief.

[ralheit 0]

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. I suffered with reflux for years and was on constant medication. I haven't had to take anything for the last 2 or 3 months. Not a problem any more.

[Elisabethsew 50]

Small frequent meals rather than 3 full ones a day, not eating for 2 hours before going to bed and acid blockers (Nexium, Prevacid, Pepcid, Zantac, etc.) all help.

[LapBandit 5]

I think it's true...I had real problems with GERD pre-band but now it's completely gone. That really sucks for those who get it post-band. But, when I did have GERD, I never ate past 8PM or else I couldn't sleep. Just a thought.

[ItsGottaGo! 0]

I, too, have problems with GERD for many years. I will let you all know what happens after I get my band. Hoping i am one of the lucky ones, and it disappears!

[Banded14yr 2]

Thank you everyone for your replies! You've been most helpful!