RD Day - thanks to Ann for the reminder

[Guest guest]

I have had A since about 1980 at the age of 12 I remember having my first

trouble swallowing. I was diagnosed originally as a 'stressed, teenaged girl'

and with 'rats tail esophagus' (seriously - I think that guy made that up). I

was officially diagnosed 3 years later after many bouts of nighttime regurg and

getting up from the table to regurg in the kitchen sink. I had a dilation first

- in the 80's that was standard course - and another dialation about every year

or two until I was referred for a myo and Nissen Fundo at the age of 20 in 1989.

Had 2 or maybe 3 post op dilations then I swallowed well for about 18 years. In

the summer of 2007 I had a routine barium swallow and endospcopy which showed

that my E had gotten grossly dilated and twisted. I sent medical records to both

Dr.'s Luketich and Rice and they both recommended the -ectomy. I had my ectomy

on Jan. 11th of 2008 and the first 6 months were REALLY tough but now I feel

great, I can eat most anything and I'm a healthy weight. Most importantly - I

have not had a spasm in over 3 years!! (cue Angels singing)

My 'new normal' is very good.

~ in NC

achalasia free since 2008