Jon F: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

I was diagnosed two years ago with severe GERD reflux disease. The maximum allowed dosages of anti-reflux medication was not enough to prevent the flow of stomach acid to my mouth. Therefore a surgical procedure known as Nissen fundoplication was the last resort to solving the problem and was recommended by the specialist.

This surgery is complicated to describe, but it involves wrapping the esophagus around the stomach to replace what should have been the natural valve which prevents the food contents from flowing upwards. After surgery, the eminent surgeon who conducted the operation told me that the "hole" at the bottom of my esophagus was one of the largest he had ever seen and had "stitch me" written all over it.

After the operation the acid reflux symptoms went entirely away, however I experienced mild to severe blockage and burning sensations at the back of my throat and a "click" whenever I swallowed. I was prescribed some anti-depressants and whilst these have been helpful to a degree, the symptoms remain and are just as upsetting and life disrupting as the GERD of which I have been cured.

I believe my vagus nerve was damaged in some way during the operation or as a result of it. No reflux medication taken since has helped and there appears to be no medication or treatment which can prevent them, although I admit I feel I may not have explored all the avenues. I fear I will have these symptoms for life.