OT - any gerd cures?

[SleepingUgly]

I'm curious what effect nissen fundoplication has on aerophagia.

None, as far as we know.

I'm another person taking a proton pump inhibitor. Cheap and effective. If the doctor is recommending surgery instead, he presumably has a good explanation why and ought to be willing to spell it out in detail. I agree with LSAT that nissen fundoplication by a surgeon who does the procedure frequently has a good reputation for effectiveness and low rate of complications. I say that as a malpractice defense lawyer who seldom sees cases arising out of this operation.

Reflux can almost always be controlled with a PPI. If it can't, it raises a suspicion that the symptoms are not reflux. The nissen is not precise, can loosen, and a significant percent end up back on PPIs, which is why they did the surgery in the first place.

To the OP, why is he having surgery? Make sure he asks the surgeon about the longevity of the surgery, in #s.

[ChicagoGranny]

Regarding Bi-PAP, I am of the opinion that if cost wasn't a factor we would probably all have them, as I don't think they make treatment worse in any situation, as long as they are properly programmed.

Disagree. I could not stand the constant ratcheting up and down of pressure.

[ChicagoGranny]

My son has had it for years and now they want to operate. Anything to keep him from under the knife?

You have a lot of answers, but no one knows what type of surgery has been proposed for your son.

[Todzo]

Regarding Bi-PAP, I am of the opinion that if cost wasn't a factor we would probably all have them, as I don't think they make treatment worse in any situation, as long as they are properly programmed.

Disagree. I could not stand the constant ratcheting up and down of pressure.

1+

[khauser]

OK, I think I understand the root of the problem now. But I am not so sure about what you are looking for help with. Typically we're looking to improve someone's sleep by minimizing events (apneas or otherwise) ... but I think I hear you asking for help controlling this need to gasp, is that right?

A good respiration therapist can teach you a number of breathing exercises that perhaps will help retrain you. Do you have this gasp-like breathing problem while awake?

[khauser]

Regarding Bi-PAP, I am of the opinion that if cost wasn't a factor we would probably all have them, as I don't think they make treatment worse in any situation, as long as they are properly programmed.

Disagree. I could not stand the constant ratcheting up and down of pressure.

Both you and Todzo feel this way, which means you're not understanding my point. Any automatic machine, Bi-PAP or APAP, can be set to restrict that. Here's the thing: nearly all of our machines are identical on the inside (within a given series). So for example all of the Series 1 Respironics systems have the same inards, but the firmware changes. Up though Bi-PAP the firmware allows you to select anything from CPAP through what that specific machine offers. I believe even a Trilogy 100 can be set up as a plain old CPAP, but that machine really IS different from others. It's only money that motivates a provider to use a CPAP in place of an APAP, we know that. I think the same is true through Bi-PAP.

In no way am I trying to say that one kind of treatment works for everyone.

[herefishy]

Actually, he tells me his sleep is not disturbed by reflux, that it is only during the day. Lucky him, huh? He's been on PPI's for ages, and they no longer relieve the discomfort. Asked him if he had Barrett's, and he hasn't answered yet, wants to research it on his own. I did tell him not to jump into the surgery.

[LSAT]

Discussing what type of machine is better and what pressures to use will not answer the question that the OP asked. CPAP will not cure GERD.
90% of GERD problems are the result of a weak or a non-functioning lower esophageal sphincter valve. Medications and lifestyle changes do help many people control symptoms, but a younger person may not want to rely on taking medications for the rest of his life and face the possibility of Barretts. There are several invasive and non invasive procedures available to strengthen the LES (and possibly 'cure' GERD). A younger person should definitely explore them.

[SleepingUgly]

CPAP will not cure GERD.

It can.

eg, http://journal.publications.chestnet.or ... id=1065063

[DreamStalker]

I know most don't like to hear the alternative view but here it is anyway for those who aren't afraid to question authoritarian conventional wisdom ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf8YSfMEyqA

[herefishy]

LSAT, can you mention some of the alternate procedures, especially non-invasive?

[LSAT]

LSAT, can you mention some of the alternate procedures, especially non-invasive?

http://linxrefluxsurgery.com/

http://www.endogastricsolutions.com/

[herefishy]

Very interesting - thanks, LSAT

[Loreena]

I know most don't like to hear the alternative view but here it is anyway for those who aren't afraid to question authoritarian conventional wisdom ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf8YSfMEyqA

I like this Dr. Peter Glidden.

http://fire-your-md-now.com/dr-gliddens ... t-for-you/

[Dreamingofsleep]

There is no doubt that untreated GERD is serious, and Barrett's very serious. A thorough assessment needs to occur if it hasn't already, so that your son knows the extent of damage done by GERD. Having said all of this it is interesting to note that many people find relief of GERD from taking a regular dose of a quality probiotic daily or twice a day where indicated.

Dreaming