Question:
Why is my reflux worse after surgery?

I had Reflux before I had surgery but its worse now I take 2 prilosec a day and sleepin a reclinner and I still wake up choking on reflux. I've also tried not eating after a certain time at night but it usally habbens early in the morning. Some times its all night long and sometimes not at all . So what do I do. Has any one else had this problem. Any sugestions?    — Christine M. (posted on February 21, 2001)

February 21, 2001
Which surgery did you have? I had RNY and my reflux disappeared immediately -- in fact, I was told we don't even produce any gastric juices in our little pouches.
   — Cindy H.

February 21, 2001
Christine, Check back with your Dr. and let her know. Maybe this is the type of surgery you had. I have severe acid reflux and have even developed Barretts esophagus(pre cancerous). I had surgery in Aug. for it. In preparing for RNY they need to take down my surgery for reflux. It was explained to me that due to the size of the pouch, not eating gassy foods and your stomach not producing the same amount of acids that this surgery appears at this time(key words)to be successful for patients with Barretts. That there will be little to none in the way of reflux thus not causing damage to the esophagus. Good luck
   — Linda M.

February 21, 2001
Christine, Talk to your physician about this. I am currently hospitalized for a perforated gastric ulcer because I minimized my symptoms, which included reflux similar to yours and vomiting.I am always afraid to appear pesky, sure wish I had been more of a pest-I would not be where I am right now
   — Margaret S.

February 21, 2001
You didn't state which type of WLS you have had. The RNY usually eliminates reflux completely; other procedures do not. If you had a RNY and are experiencing this degree of reflux, please consult your surgeon immediately. Some VBG patients who continue to experience severe reflux problems, choose revision to the RNY as the solution. Chronic reflux can lead to severe inflammation of the esophagus, a condition which needs immediate medical attention. The Prilosec and sleeping in the recliner are good interventions short-term, but you need to let your doctor know how much difficulty you are having. Good luck!
   — Diana T.