had my dilation today

[Guest guest]

After reading all the posts about HM and all the positive turnouts, second

doubts about a dilation were there. But my plan has been to try it as the

first option, and then consider surgery if it doesn't work.

Just in the interest of sharing the experience ...

They put me totally under for it. The used a 30 mm balloon. It was followed

immediately by barium swallow to make sure they didn't tear the esophagus.

There was no damage.

The GI who performed the procedure said if the dilation doesn't work I'll

know in about three to four weeks, but the longer I go without problems the

greater the odds that the dilation will hold.

The effects were almost immediate. While in recovery, I finished 8 ounces

of apple juice in 10 minutes. That was impossible previously. Soup and

fluids are going down a lot easier. I'm actually thrilled. In the next few

days I'll increase the food challenges.

The pain from the procedure was minimal; it was no different than the kind

of rawness/discomfort I've felt after prior endoscopies. Not long lasting

and no big deal.

So that's it. I hope I can begin to eat a better diet, get better energy

and start jogging again.

Appreciate reading all the stories that people have posted about their

experiences. This list has been a great source of support.

Best

Pat