Surviving Achalasia

[barws]

I am new here and just wanted to share my story. I had a esophagectomy on July 9 after struggling with Achalasia for 35 years. I had end stage Achalasia and was suffering and starving. Finally, after years of surgeries, endoscopes, Botox injections, dilations, stints, medications and more, I had to have my esophagus completely removed. Yesterday, some of the tubes, staples and stitches from the surgery were removed. Although I still have the feeding tube, I feel good so far. It felt good to drink some water and eat some soft foods without worrying about it getting stuck. Next Friday the feeding tube comes out.

I was horrified to have the surgery, but I am glad I did.

[jeffw663]

Well done, you are now starting your new life, loads to look forward to, as a meat eater I am enjoying b-b-q steaks and chicken, nothing is a problem, OK there are side effects that will be with you for the rest of your life but hey you are happy to live with it, I had a cancer removed with part of my esophagus just over 1 year ago and am making sure I enjoy the rest of my life.

Again well done, and well done your surgical team, they are all fantastic.

Jeff

[barws in reply to jeffw663]

Hi Jeff! Thanks for the encouragement. I have been hesitant about what to eat so far, but everything is going down smoothly. I still have a way to go before BBQ dishes and can’t wait to join in with the family. The past few years have been tough and now the future is looking hopeful.

It is time to enjoy the rest of my life!

Barb

[SurreyGuy]

Hi there. I had an oesophagectomy 12 years ago and it transformed my life after 30 years of achalasia. The first six months after surgery are tough but its worth it. I recall i had trouble with trapped air at the start but my body sorted it out eventually. I now have some gastric stasis which is being sorted out but its nowhere near as challenging as achalasia. I can now eat almost anything and don't need Coke to assist. Well done I think you will find it a huge relief.

[barws in reply to SurreyGuy]

Thank you SurreyGuy, it is good to know that life after achalasia can be almost normal again. I can’t wait to drink a ice cold glass of Coke, just because.

Congratulations on your progress!

Barb

[erasuretim]

I had Achalasia for decades and ended up having an ectomy after my oesophagus became nothing more than an ulcerated baggy sack. Now I can enjoy food, cooking and feel so much better. No more regurgitating for me!

[barws in reply to erasuretim]

Congratulations on your progress. It is good to know how others with the same issue are living.

Barb