Absent Gag Reflex and Reflux

[Guest guest]

My 17 year old son, who has Chiari, has an absent gag reflex. I've

collected medical journal articles about Chiari for our local support

group. In this literature, it states that there can be impaired gag

reflex due to brainstem compression as a result of the Chiari. My son

had decompression surgery in 2001 and has done reasonable well since

that time with a few flare ups here and there. He continues with the

absent gag reflex and therefore there must have been some permanent

damage to the brainstem in the area where it controls this response.

The gag reflex protects against aspiration of fluids or food into the

tracheobronchial passages. So people who have an absent gag reflex

may be at risk for aspiration more easily. For example, did you ever

" swallowed down the wrong throat " or " got food caught in your wind

pipe " , well that is what you may experience a little more often

because of an absent gag reflex.

My son also has reflux. Our pediatrician told us Chiari and reflux go

hand in hand. So, he takes Zantac twice a day and it really keeps it

under control. If he misses a pill, he really is bothered by the

reflux. It is important to be evaluated and treated for reflux as the

back flow of gastric juices can be damaging to the esophagus.

Hope this is helpful.