Another update

[Anne1966]

Saw my rheumatologist today, confirmed I have CREST, got to have barium swallow to see what damage has been done to my oesophagus & may need referral for lungs, but apart from that, I'm doing fine.

[franky1965]

Hi could i please ask what your symptoms regarding your oesophagus many thanks

[Anne1966 in reply to franky1965]

Difficulty in swallowing most foods, need water at all times when eat, feels like there's a constant blockage in my mid chest. Think some damage done by GERD, but rheumatologist thinks it's 'faulty' all the way down.

[franky1965 in reply to Anne1966]

thankyou so much I am having similar problems just waiting to see prof ariane herrick

[zenabb]

Good.You are being looked after.

[trunchalobesity]

Barium swallow is common to measure the effects of heartburn (acid reflux), this in turn can cause strictures in the oesophagus. This can then cause narrowing of the food pipe and difficulty swallowing and moving food down the food pipe.  I have lung involvement too so I was told it was very important to elevate the head of the bed by 15 degrees to prevent aspiration (breathing in) of stomach acid which in turn can lead to further scarring of the lungs.

You ar being looked after, barium swallow is unpleasant but painless and simple from that they will know how to look after you.  

[PaleIndian2]

I have had a barium swallow and it should that the peristalsis (wave like operation of the muscle) of the gullet stops working every so often.   It makes me feel that everything is stuck and I feel awful.  It usually takes a few hours to resume again.

[Madge51]

Heavens Anne thats more than enough to be going on with.  Was the diagnosis more specific?  The CREST acronym is not used any longer, it tends to be either Diffuse or Limited Systemic Sclerosis. I have Limited Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis to give it its full name.  Its the esophagus that is most damaged by the mixed connective tissue side of the disease, closely followed by the rest of the GI tract.  A clearer definition of your condition would be much more helpful in aiding your understanding of what you have and how you might be able to readjust to it.