He has GAVE (watermelon stomach). He is having transfusions every 2-3 months now, used to be 6 months. Also has laser once a year which does not do anything for him. We live on the mid North Coast NSW but we will go anywhere if we can get a Dr who specialises in this area. I also want to know if there is something else that is causing this. The Drs. here do not seem to know much and instead of researching they just keep giving transfusions.
I have heard of a treatment in the US called CRYOTHERAPY which supposed to work and stops or slows the bleeding. Does anyone know of this being done here in Australia.
Thanks
Franny1
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franny1
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As far as I understand, cryotherapy is terminology for freezing and know here in England where I am it is available for ridding warts on fingers, etc. but the liquid nitrogen used here is externally sonot sure internally.
Watermelon stomach (GAVE) is bleeding in the stomach. There is a Dr is the US that does cryotherapy for watermelon stomach. HE had a video on his website showing what he does.
Thank for your reply.
Franny1
Watermelon stomach is quite common in one of the conditions i have called scleroderma. Has he had an autoimmune profile done?
No he hasn't. What is an autoimmune. Who does it. The gastroenterologist or blood test, as we will enquire. to have it done.
Thanks
Franny1
Autoimmune profile is a simple blood test that can show up autoimmune conditions that someone might have. It doesnt necessarily mean a diagnosis, just an indicator. For example most people with PBC have anti mitochondrial antibody, people with scleroderma have anti centromere antibody etc. These antibodies indicate that the immune system is turning on the person's body.
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Hello! PBC - I have no idea what's going on!
I really need some advice
New diagnosis of PBC 15th Feb. Please tell me this is normal to feel so down, angry, upset and why me, I feel so alone.
Bit of an epic for which I apologise.
Just diagnosed with PBC
