Doing Nothing is not an Option - Part 2- The Consultation

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Yesterday I had my consultation with Dr. Brody. Even though we have known each other for years (through my wife's GERD), it was the first time we met as doctor/patient. She wanted to get to know me, my symptoms, and my medical history, in advance of Monday's endoscopy. There was no examination, nor did I expect one.

My 370 page medical history from s Hopkins (1984 - 1994) was filtered down to around 110 pages and made for some eye-opening reading while I awaited my appointment. I always felt somewhat ignorant in this group not knowing the name of the wrap I had, plus being unsure how many dilatations I had (how can one forget!) Now I know, and I'll be able to translate my achalasian history to Notan's new identification system. 5 dilatations before the 1 myotomy with a Belsey wrap. I'll do the abbreviating later. (You'd think, considering the definition of the word "abbreviation" that it should be a much smaller word)

If there was one thing I learned from yesterday, we all should have access to our detailed medical histories. There was much in there that I was not aware of. Apparently, and maybe with the best of intentions, doctors only tell you what they believe you should know. Having a friend who thinks she has Cancer every time she has a new pain, I will admit that it is sometimes in the patient's best interest that they are not told everything.

Based upon the symptoms I described to Dr. Brody, she felt that I will need on Monday a minor dilatation, to clear away possible scar tissue and a possible narrowing in the LES.

Ann, Giselle, Kim (from NZ), Maggie, and Peggy, thank you so much for your warm thoughts and well wishes.

O/T Ann I woke up today, 07/07, feeling in a good mood (being that its my birthday), until I heard on the radio that today is a very sad day in London, & all of England, the US and everywhere else where people care. Later I read your post concerning the London Subway bombings. Even with all the joy you bring to this Board, you were correct in remembering for us. We must not forget what has happened.

Giselle, I loved the group photo of the meetup! I hope your scars continue to heal as you continue to improve.

Kim, reading that you are three years post-op and concerned about a return of symptoms, perhaps the best advice is, regardless of how good you feel, its always best to be checked once a year (as I used to do), to pick up something beginning to change before you are aware of it. Something, such as a minor dilatation, could then be done before the symptoms progress.

Maggie, you have been on this website forever and have been like a guardian angel to most of us!

Peggy, congratulations in approaching your one year anniversary, just a month and a day away.