alternatives

[Guest guest]

I don't usually have much to post on this subject, I have tried diet

modification, supplements, relaxation techniques and accupuncture to

varying degrees of success and I would never in a million years tell

anyone to NOT look at all of your options but I'm very concerned at

the number of people who are doing this and seemingly NOT having

their condition monitored at the same time.

Let's deal with a few facts. Achalasia is a progressive, chronic,

degenerative disorder (disease, what have you). It is NOT the result

of poor lifestyle choices, eating, weight issues (never had any

myself), etc. All of those things may play a part in your symptoms

and relief of other health issues and general improvement of your

weight, health and posture will probably help to alleviate some of

your symptoms but there is NO CURE!!

Think about us like you would think about someone with diabetes or

epilepsy - lifestyle changes and health changes will undoubtably

improve your symptoms and may even slow the progression of your

disease but it will not go away. You would fix a mitral valve

prolapse (a valve problem in your heart) with surgery wouldn't you?

why would you not fix the 'valve' problem in your esophagus?

I don't want people to stop looking at options, please just don't be

so wrapped up in the 'all surgery and all western medicine is bad'

mentality that you don't truly look and consider ALL of your options.

Good surgery with a good surgeon and solid lifestyle changes and

you'll probably be about as close to 'normal' as possible.

Good luck in all of your searches, please share what you find with us

and please, please, please - whatever you do - do not ignore your

condition or cease to have routine monitoring done every couple of

years.

OK - 'nuf of my soapbox for now.

It's all meant with love,

- in NC