Hi everyone -

I recently was completely unfilled due to reflux (initial symptoms were allergy like - drainage/throat clearing) & I went MONTHS like this until I was told this was reflux. 'Ran' To Mexico last month 2/18 an had all Fluid out. Went on liquid diet + maalox for 4 days (as prescribed) felt better - ate very lightly for one week - no trouble - started eating normally (really!) with only one pig out (1/2 steak/cheese with BUN - no onions, mayo) Big but not like prebanding.

Anyway - last weekend reflux came back and now with burning. Back on liquids and maalox. Local band doc gave me nexium but mexican doc suggested not taking it due to sitting in pouch (which i thought was not there now due to unfill)

I am awaiting mexican docs call now (again) - he has my on liquids and maalox until tommrow -

Well - I am not better - I have 'heat' in my throat and mouth and sometimes chest - maalox is making me gag and giving me the runs (sorry). And frankly I am scared and ready to book a ticket to get this band out.

I'm thinking it slipped or eroded - NEVER had heartburn before banding.

I'm ready to book a flight tuesday for band removal - this is seriously impacting my life/sleep and I'm starving.

Help - any advice - suggestions - been through it. Thanks, Mary

Best of luck. I hope they are able to figure something else out besides having your band removed.

I'm home from Mexico - was prepped for surgery - went for the endoscope (thank God you are asleep for that one!) and two types of barium studies to find out MY BAND IS FINE! They offered to take it out - if I wanted - but suggested I wait to see if I can figure out what is really wrong. Had another test in Mexico (wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy) - where you are AWAKE but they blindfold you - check your esophogus - with a tube down thru nose to way down there - they take readings - then make you swallow a bunch of times. Nicest mexican doctor but here's the difference. I go for the second test and he pats me on the shoulder and says "This you must be awake for - and it is uncomfortable and a little painful". I asked if I signaled him could we stop and he says "No, we don't stop' you just stay calm. Ugh.

So - band is fine - no one thinks it is reflux. They recommended a few more tests state side - ear nose and throat and gastro guys but I'm resting for a week.

My innards are sore so still not eating much but some. The burning is subsiding and I'm taking multi Vitamins and B vitamins and thinking the month of liquids and month of antacids was killing me. My body is probably so out of wack from stress and no food.

I've lost 10lbs since this all started although I'm not saying that to 'brag' or necessarily think it is good - it is somewhat ironic.

I was sad to think I would lose the band but would still do it if for some reason it is necessary or maybe even as a last resort but I'm not there yet.

I will also say - my docs - at the Obesity Control Center - and all the staff are beyond wonderful, competent and caring. The care and attention to me were/are beyond anything I have ever received in the states. My local land band doc has STILL NOT CALLED ME BACK FROM LAST TUES. when i was in such distress.

My OCC docts (particularly Dr. Martinez) are saints in my books - and the nurses - don't get me started.

Thanks everyone who sent me well wishes - I love my lab band community - you are all a lifeline and such a good support -

hugs,

mary

I'm glad you were able to keep the band! I hope you are able to get to the bottom of your issues.

And I just want to agree with you that Dr. Martinez is the greatest! He was so good when I had my slip, explaining everything and being so calm and comforting.

WHY did they blindfold you for that test?? Sounds bizarre!

We are all rooting for you, Mary--and praying that you get an answer to just what is causing your issues. I'm so sorry for you. Keep everyone informed as to your status...:drool:

mary, glad you have your band and hope they figure out what is wrong. It made me glad to hear OCC was so good to you for a post surgery problem, even a couple of years past your surgery date. I wondered if they truly did followup care for complications that far out, and I'm very happy to hear they are still there for you.

I think they blindfolded me because that dang tube was sooooooo long and it's important to stay calm. It also takes about 1/2 hour to complete. They pull it out a little and read some numbers off it - then the nurse put Water in my mouth and he would tell me when to swallow.

I was so thirsty from fasting (in case of surgery) I didn't mind the water LOL but it was a bit hellish. Even though I am a big baby I can make myself stay calm but boy was I glad when it was over.

He also gave me a DVD on the endo and all the results from all tests so I won't have to do them again.

And, back to Dr. Martinez - good lord that man is so darn handsome - and such a bedside manner. My boyfriend allows my little crush on him - heh-

Phew!

Thanks again everyone - I'll try to keep all posted - when I figure this all out.

Mary, I am so glad t hear the band is ok, and that your esophagus appears healthy!!! Sorry the testing was such a drag. I would have probably thrown up on him, handsome or not!!!

I would like to say I can't believe your Dr. has not called you back---but I do believe it---it is hard to say if HE even knows you want a call back---office staff is often to blame!

Please keep us posted when you do go in for further testing, it is all information that all of us who are banded should know so if we ever have to face any of this we are prepared. Sorry you get to be the leader!!!

Rest and recover, hang out here at LBT---let US entertain you!!!

Kat