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I had 1/2 of my thyroid removed 25 years ago. 4 or 5 years ...

Sent to Health Experts October 08, 2006 6:21 p.m.

I had 1/2 of my thyroid removed 25 years ago. 4 or 5 years later I had to have a scar revision because when the surgeons sutured me after surgery they sutured up part of my esophagus. This gave me an extremely noticeable "pucker" on my neck when I swallowed.

I have recently been diagnosed with acid reflex, possibly Barrett's. I had an EDG recently, but they couldn't do a biopsy because of an esophagal ulcer. I have to wait 3 months before I can be tested again.

My question : Could the problem with my esophagus now be related to my surgery on my thyroid (piercing the esophagus)?

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Female , Age: 61

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October 08, 2006 8:39 p.m. (2 hours and 17 minutes later)

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It is possible that scar tissue related to the surgery, could have created some traction on the esophagus, contributing SOME to the reflux. Esophageal reflux is VERY common. Things that contribute to reflux; caffeine, nicotine, alcohol.

I assume they have put you on one of the proton pump inhibitors (Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix, Nexium) - they are the most effective medications for this problem. If you do use caffeine, nicotine or alcohol, I would suggest stopping or reducing your use.

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