Chest Pain

[Guest guest]

Dear Sue,

I remember you from about 3 years ago. Weren't you around in those

days?

Sorry to hear you are having trouble again. I thought another

operation or dilatation would help, but don't know much about that.

Why don't they want to operate again?

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?CMD=search & DB=pubmed

Check out this website. It seems to have all the summaries of all

the publications from everywhere. I started with achalasia, then

doctor's names, anything you can think of that relates to your

situation.

I also did some more exploring and if there is only the summary, if

you go to the particular publication where the article originated you

might find the whole article.

I put in myotomy, manometry, peristalysis, every word I could think

of... just with achalasia there were a couple thousand articles I

think. By the time you read some of the current stuff you will be

current.

Actually some of the older articles are good about they symptoms and

the interaction, but I'm suspicious of the older articles about

treatment options. Seems like the last year or so most doctors are

recommending surgery before any other treatment.

For people like you, that is a different thing, I assume it becomes

very individualized.

You do have to be careful of the dates. The articles go back to even

the 80's and when you read about achalasia, once you go past about

1998, the articles are just if lap is a good option compared to open

chest surgery, for example. Beware of some of the early articles

about botox, they were very promising.

I also put in the surgeons' names to see if they had expertise in

thoracic surgery, but didn't happen to publish about myotomies.

Good luck. It is nice to see you back again, sorry there is a

problem that brought you back.

> I don't suffer from chest pain as much as I used to

> since I have been taking Protonix--I seem to get an

> episode if I forget to take it, which I haven't in a

> while. The last two times I had chest pain that

> wouldn't go away by chugging cold Diet Coke--which

> works for me usually if I get to it in time, were in

> the middle of the night. I decided to try the heating

> pad. I sat propped up with the heating pad on my

> chest. The pain eased off within half an hour and I

> went back to sleep. I know what it's like to be afraid

> to lay back down or worry if it's going to come back.

> I don't know if that was coincidence or if it really

> worked since it's only been a couple of times. Has

> anyone else tried this? If it works for you, you could

> keep one of the instant heat packs with you when

> you're out, although it might look funny with

> something like that on your chest. I figured if it's

> spasm, heat might help.

>

>

>

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[Guest guest]

hello there yes was here yes would be about three years ago, havent left just one thing another and computer problems, well there was suggestion i might have a balloon dilation think thats whats it called not sure, they dont want to operate again in case of more damage, thanks so much for all the info will go and look at it all,

suetoomuchclutter <sandycarroll@...> wrote:

Dear Sue,I remember you from about 3 years ago. Weren't you around in those days?Sorry to hear you are having trouble again. I thought another operation or dilatation would help, but don't know much about that. Why don't they want to operate again? http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?CMD=search & DB=pubmedCheck out this website. It seems to have all the summaries of all the publications from everywhere. I started with achalasia, then doctor's names, anything you can think of that relates to your situation. I also did some more exploring and if there is only the summary, if you go to the particular publication where the article originated you might find the whole article. I put in myotomy, manometry, peristalysis, every word I could think of... just with achalasia there were a couple

thousand articles I think. By the time you read some of the current stuff you will be current.Actually some of the older articles are good about they symptoms and the interaction, but I'm suspicious of the older articles about treatment options. Seems like the last year or so most doctors are recommending surgery before any other treatment. For people like you, that is a different thing, I assume it becomes very individualized.You do have to be careful of the dates. The articles go back to even the 80's and when you read about achalasia, once you go past about 1998, the articles are just if lap is a good option compared to open chest surgery, for example. Beware of some of the early articles about botox, they were very promising.I also put in the surgeons' names to see if they had expertise in thoracic surgery, but didn't happen to publish about myotomies.Good luck. It is nice to see you back again,

sorry there is a problem that brought you back.> I don't suffer from chest pain as much as I used to> since I have been taking Protonix--I seem to get an> episode if I forget to take it, which I haven't in a> while. The last two times I had chest pain that> wouldn't go away by chugging cold Diet Coke--which>

works for me usually if I get to it in time, were in> the middle of the night. I decided to try the heating> pad. I sat propped up with the heating pad on my> chest. The pain eased off within half an hour and I> went back to sleep. I know what it's like to be afraid> to lay back down or worry if it's going to come back.> I don't know if that was coincidence or if it really> worked since it's only been a couple of times. Has> anyone else tried this? If it works for you, you could> keep one of the instant heat packs with you when> you're out, although it might look funny with> something like that on your chest. I figured if it's> spasm, heat might help. > > > > __________________________________ > Mobile > Take with you! Check email on your mobile phone. > http://mobile./learn/mail > > > >

>

[Guest guest]

Lori, some people have had relief from Levsin, others haven't. I would hazard a guess that the people who found relief with Levsin were experiencing actual "spasm pains" where the esophagus and/or LES was in a spasm/cramp situation, and the people who didn't find any relief from it were having "NCCPs", or neuropathic (nerve) pain. But that's just my best guess.

Levsin is right up there on the list with Calcium Channel Blockers, Nitro, antidepressants, cold water, hot water, hard pretzels, and popsicles.... works for some people every time, other people never get it to work for them at all, and there doesn't seem to be any particular rhyme or reason for what works when.

Sure would be nice if we could find a nice, easy, "one size fits all" solution to this issue, huh? ;o)

It seems like someone tried an antispasmotic besides Levsin, but I don't recall right off the top of my head who it was or which drug or the result. Not much help, am I?

Debbi in Michigan

I don't know if there is one set of rules to deal with spasms/chest pain, even for each individual. I do think they are exacerbated by certain things like stress, certain foods (caffeine), inflammation, etc. and we won't always get relief when we do what worked on another occasion. From what I have read, which is probably less than some of you, is that the spasm, or pain that is perceived, is probably due to a lowered "threshold" in certain nerves in area, which means whatever triggered it(irritated--"noxious stimuli") the particular nerves, because the PAIN THRESHOLD IS LOWER in those nerves, a person will have a heightened realization of pain (certain hormones also lower pain thresholds). It wouldn't be the nerve/muscles that are already gone/damaged due to achalasia, but the after-effects (stretching, etc.) on other nerves in the area--when something triggers or sets off those nerves, you perceive pain--and the severity will beaffected by many other factors. (Read about nociceptor pain)So I think that at the very least, whether you reach for antidepressants, betablockers, whatever, when you are having pain, trying to stay relaxed, calm, (breathe slowly), should be the first thing you do--try not to tense up.Also, maybe this has been brought up before, but I don't remember. Has anyone ever taken any sulblingual Levsin or other antispasmotics and did it help. Lori

[Guest guest]

Lori, if the docs knew how to tell which is which, there wouldn't be so many of us suffering so badly! ;o)

I didn't add one other possible cause of the NCCP -- gas pains. If there is gas in the stomach that can't be belched up because the LES won't open to let the bubble through, or even if there is gas trapped in the esophagus itself (particularly a "pouchy" esophagus), that can cause sharp gas pains in the chest/shoulder area. Normally gas pains are short-lived, b/c they are relieved after belching. But if you can't belch.....

Spasms in the esophagus, nerves sending bad signals, brain making stupid interpretations of normal signals, trapped gas ..... with all the possibilities, it's no wonder that so many of us have to deal with these darn chest pains!Debbi in Michigan

Debbie--What's the difference--or how do you know chest pain is only nerve pain or spasm (which nerves induce or act on). Antispamotics act on certain nerves/smooth muscle. I used to think I had "heartburn", but now I realize it must be spasm pain--which couldn't happen without nerve innervation.

[Guest guest]

I was told, just last Tuesday, August 30th that SMA affects only the skeletal

muscles not the smooth ones; heart, diaphram, and other automoton type body

functions.

Bare in mind that weakened skeletal muscles may put more stress on the other

parts of our bodies that may manifest in chest pains, or bowel problems

because they are close by and tend to be somewhat associated with its

functions (for example: forcing yourself to walk quickly when weaker can

overwork the heart; baring down to poop involves lower stomach muscles so if

weakened it may take you longer to do a dump).

The eyes? Well I would think not, but I couldn't say if the muscles

controlling the eyes are catagorized as skeletal or not? However, I learned

that those with Mavis Gravis may experience eye control issues because MG

affects the facial and upper muscle groups.

So as you venture forth and feel the weakening process progress you will have

to back off a little on your physical efforts so that you don't stress

yourself out. Keep doing whatever you can, for as long as you feel comfy, but

don't force yourself beyond a reasonable effort because you'll frustrate

yourself and may create a bigger problem for yourself.

When in doubt, ask someone to help you out.

Angie

(On 2005.09.04 14:02, sodexhodave wrote:

> anyone with adult onset know if sma affects the heart or the muscles

> aroud it? what about the eyes ? any problems there

>

>

>

>

>

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[Guest guest]

Hello Dave This is Derik the 48 year old with the adult onset. I will

try and answer short and sweet about my experiances with my heart. I don't

think SMA effects your heart muscles directly. But it can effect it indirectly.

Heredity

wise my grand father died of a heart attack at 45, my father at 36 and I

survived one at 44. When mine happened I had many things working against me. And

any one of these can cause chest pains. 1.) being disabled and for first time

not able to go to work. " emotional " 2.) Thrree broken ankles and two bashed in

knees in a 3 year period makes ones life seditary. I had injured

my neck in the first fall that made even crutching excersize extreamly

painfull for all the others. " physical " . 3.) I had been a single parent for 16

years

and was sued, screwed and tattooed in court by an absent parent when in midst

of all the injuries and lack of finaces due to being on the long dis ability

process. It was wrong what transpired and even more so the justice system.

" emotional, physical and mental " . 4.) I had a girl friend at the time who I

was about to marry and I caught her sneaking around on internet and then lieing

straight to my face when I knew better. " emotional " . 5.) Sought help

emotionally and mentally during all this through the county for several years on

the

verge of a break down many times only to be told that I could only recieve help

if I committed suicide. " emotional, mental " 6.) Daughter returned and given

to my mother's custody since her mother did'nt need her anymore. She had

beaten me out of 16 years child support arrearages and inflicted me with paying

her

money " god knows she didnt deserve " and all my resources except love had been

depleated. My rage and anger internalized effecting me physically.

" physically, mentally, emotionally " . Long story short...... All these factors

constitute

heart attacks or chest pains due to anxioty, stress and change do to

circumstances beyond your control. I understand you have been recently

diagnosed with

the disease " mental, emotional " and getting harrassment at work " mental,

emotional anguish " . Life as you know it is changing and how we process and

accept

the changes affect us. I appologize for the details but it helps one see the

many factors we all have to deal with and cope with. Dealing with the system

we all need help and support to endue the " waiting game " and the fear of an

unknown future. Feel free to E mail me privately cause I do go into detail and

obviously many things effect our hearts....... As for eye muscles. I have been

noticing for last few years my eyes wander when Im relaxed and have wondered

also if anyone else experiances this. I too am supposed to wear glasses but tend

to believe its from that old wives tale " You will go blind if you keep doing

that " . And heeded that warning early and stopped when I merely needed

glasses. : )~

[Guest guest]

OH I forgot.......... Go have yourself tested and monitor your blood

pressure. All tests are reasonably easy unless you got a hairy chest. One test

is

called " the stress test " . I could'nt maintain the tread mill speed cause my

calves become like 40 lb weights. So they have a way of doing the same test with

injecting something in your body. Don't fear it cause it was a breeze and you

get some lunch too. So easy that I slept through what they considered stress.

And passed with flying colors. And an aspirin is always a good idea.

Derik

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 9/4/2005 11:20:09 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

those2@... writes:

The *diaphragm* is most definitely affected by sma. That's why we

(many, many of us) have so many respiratory problems (many of us have

little or no ability to cough to clear our lungs).

L

Yes, the diaphragm is definitely affected. I'm a " belly breather " b/c my

diaphragm is a piece of crap. I now have a trach and ventilator b/c I can't

breathe well anymore. Whoever that Dr is knows nothing about SMA.

Kimi

[Guest guest]

Angie,

From what I remember from A & P, I thought the diaphragm's job is to push up

to expand the chest. It is the lazy way to breathe w/ur belly muscles.

Kimi

In a message dated 9/4/2005 11:41:03 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

angie@... writes:

Hope so, else I am not sure who you are?

Anyway, I suppose in my case, I have a reliable diaphram. Sure, I can't

cough

my " brains " out, but I have no need for a cough assist yet. Maybe as I age,

I

will, but I will cross that bridge if I come to it.

I also heard once that breathing with our diaphrams is a " lazy man's way " of

breathing. We should, ideally breathe with our chest muscles; expanding our

upper chest area rather than expanding our bellies. It's this dependancy

that

overworks our diaphrams and puts us SMA'ers at a higher risk for aided

breathing devices and other such equipment.

So had our chest muscles not been affected by SMA then our poor bellies

wouldn't have to work so hard to breathe for us.

Angie

[Guest guest]

In a message dated 9/4/2005 11:46:51 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

angie@... writes:

Could types I be more susceptible than types 2 or 3 when it comes to

ventilation dependancy? Or could it also have to do with how nasty SMA is

when it's actively debuncting our bodies?

Angie

I do think the weaker you are affected by SMA the more prone you are to

needing assistance in breathing. Yes, types I's are weaker thus needing

assistance sooner, but I cant say for other types. I am considered a weak type

2

and a 3 to some b/c I walked in my younger years, and I am on a vent, have a

trach and g/j tube, and wc since 5 yrs of age. So, I cant answer that ? fully.

Kimi

[Guest guest]

I'm grateful to get this understanding of different ways to breath. Now I'm

trying to use my chest to breath and refine it. Breathing is something I have

taken for granted. Any advice or suggestions on how to practice this technique

of breathing? I sometimes wonder and feel

like I have nothing to offer any of you in this group because my case of SMA

is so mild compared to all others. Yet I don't know anyone else that

understands this disease like all of you. Is there another group of people with

SMA

that exist where my comments, concerns and experiancs might bennifit them or

myself in a greater manner? Where do all the adult onset people go?

Derik

[Guest guest]

The *diaphragm* is most definitely affected by sma. That's why we

(many, many of us) have so many respiratory problems (many of us have

little or no ability to cough to clear our lungs).

L

Angie wrote:

> I was told, just last Tuesday, August 30th that SMA affects only the

> skeletal

> muscles not the smooth ones; heart, diaphram, and other automoton type

> body

> functions.

>

> Bare in mind that weakened skeletal muscles may put more stress on the

> other

> parts of our bodies that may manifest in chest pains, or bowel problems

> because they are close by and tend to be somewhat associated with its

> functions (for example: forcing yourself to walk quickly when weaker can

> overwork the heart; baring down to poop involves lower stomach muscles

> so if

> weakened it may take you longer to do a dump).

>

> The eyes? Well I would think not, but I couldn't say if the muscles

> controlling the eyes are catagorized as skeletal or not? However, I

> learned

> that those with Mavis Gravis may experience eye control issues because MG

> affects the facial and upper muscle groups.

>

> So as you venture forth and feel the weakening process progress you

> will have

> to back off a little on your physical efforts so that you don't stress

> yourself out. Keep doing whatever you can, for as long as you feel

> comfy, but

> don't force yourself beyond a reasonable effort because you'll frustrate

> yourself and may create a bigger problem for yourself.

>

> When in doubt, ask someone to help you out.

>

> Angie

>

> (On 2005.09.04 14:02, sodexhodave wrote:

> > anyone with adult onset know if sma affects the heart or the muscles

> > aroud it? what about the eyes ? any problems there

> >

> >

> >

> >

> >

> > A FEW RULES

> >

> > * The list members come from many backgrounds, ages and beliefs So all

> > members most be tolerant and respectful to all members.

> >

> > * Some adult language and topics (like sexual health, swearing..) may

> > occur occasionally in emails. Over use of inappropriate language will

> > not be allowed. If your under 16 ask your parents/gaurdian before you

> > join the list.

> >

> > * No SPAMMING or sending numerous emails unrelated to the topics of

> > spinal muscular atrophy, health, and the daily issues of the disabled.

> >

> > Post message:

> > Subscribe: -subscribe

> > Unsubscribe: -unsubscribe

> >

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> >

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[Guest guest]

L=Lori?

Hope so, else I am not sure who you are?

Anyway, I suppose in my case, I have a reliable diaphram. Sure, I can't cough

my " brains " out, but I have no need for a cough assist yet. Maybe as I age, I

will, but I will cross that bridge if I come to it.

I also heard once that breathing with our diaphrams is a " lazy man's way " of

breathing. We should, ideally breathe with our chest muscles; expanding our

upper chest area rather than expanding our bellies. It's this dependancy that

overworks our diaphrams and puts us SMA'ers at a higher risk for aided

breathing devices and other such equipment.

So had our chest muscles not been affected by SMA then our poor bellies

wouldn't have to work so hard to breathe for us.

Angie

On 2005.09.04 23:19, Those Two wrote:

> The *diaphragm* is most definitely affected by sma. That's why we

> (many, many of us) have so many respiratory problems (many of us have

> little or no ability to cough to clear our lungs).

>

> L

>

> Angie wrote:

> > I was told, just last Tuesday, August 30th that SMA affects only the

> > skeletal

> > muscles not the smooth ones; heart, diaphram, and other automoton type

> > body

> > functions.

> >

> > Bare in mind that weakened skeletal muscles may put more stress on the

> > other

> > parts of our bodies that may manifest in chest pains, or bowel problems

> > because they are close by and tend to be somewhat associated with its

> > functions (for example: forcing yourself to walk quickly when weaker can

> > overwork the heart; baring down to poop involves lower stomach muscles

> > so if

> > weakened it may take you longer to do a dump).

> >

> > The eyes? Well I would think not, but I couldn't say if the muscles

> > controlling the eyes are catagorized as skeletal or not? However, I

> > learned

> > that those with Mavis Gravis may experience eye control issues because MG

> > affects the facial and upper muscle groups.

> >

> > So as you venture forth and feel the weakening process progress you

> > will have

> > to back off a little on your physical efforts so that you don't stress

> > yourself out. Keep doing whatever you can, for as long as you feel

> > comfy, but

> > don't force yourself beyond a reasonable effort because you'll frustrate

> > yourself and may create a bigger problem for yourself.

> >

> > When in doubt, ask someone to help you out.

> >

> > Angie

> >

> > (On 2005.09.04 14:02, sodexhodave wrote:

> > > anyone with adult onset know if sma affects the heart or the muscles

> > > aroud it? what about the eyes ? any problems there

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > A FEW RULES

> > >

> > > * The list members come from many backgrounds, ages and beliefs So all

> > > members most be tolerant and respectful to all members.

> > >

> > > * Some adult language and topics (like sexual health, swearing..) may

> > > occur occasionally in emails. Over use of inappropriate language will

> > > not be allowed. If your under 16 ask your parents/gaurdian before you

> > > join the list.

> > >

> > > * No SPAMMING or sending numerous emails unrelated to the topics of

> > > spinal muscular atrophy, health, and the daily issues of the disabled.

> > >

> > > Post message:

> > > Subscribe: -subscribe

> > > Unsubscribe: -unsubscribe

> > >

> > > List manager: (Sexy Mature Artist) Email: Esma1999@...

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > > oogroups.com

> > >

> > > List manager: (Sexy Mature Artist) Email: Esma1999@...

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

> > >

[Guest guest]

Question:

Could types I be more susceptible than types 2 or 3 when it comes to

ventilation dependancy? Or could it also have to do with how nasty SMA is

when it's actively debuncting our bodies?

Angie

On 2005.09.04 23:43, Ksmile96@... wrote:

> In a message dated 9/4/2005 11:20:09 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

> those2@... writes:

>

> The *diaphragm* is most definitely affected by sma. That's why we

> (many, many of us) have so many respiratory problems (many of us have

> little or no ability to cough to clear our lungs).

>

> L

>

>

>

>

>

>

> Yes, the diaphragm is definitely affected. I'm a " belly breather " b/c my

> diaphragm is a piece of crap. I now have a trach and ventilator b/c I

> can't breathe well anymore. Whoever that Dr is knows nothing about SMA.

> Kimi

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

, the spasms A/K/A non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP)

as with most other symptoms affects each of us a little

differently. They can be light or very severe. Mine

always start in the chest, radiate to the back and out the

arms. In some people it goes into the jaw and ears.

I have also had them where they were just little nagging

pains in the chest area and continue on and off for hours.

Most of us have found ways to stop these pains, some

require meds but some of us drink water, (some cold, some

room temperature. some warm), others eat popsicles,

cracker, etc. I drink cold water...when the pain first

starts I gulp several large swallows and it will usually

stop them. Keep trying different things until you find

what works for you.

Hope this helps you find what works for you.

Maggie

Alabama

[Guest guest]

This is very helpful! I have these pains too. Sometimes I have the

pain that goes from the chest up into my jaw and soft palete. Thanks

for the advice!

Lilli

-- In achalasia , LunaIam2@... wrote:

>

> , the spasms A/K/A non-cardiac chest pain (NCCP)

> as with most other symptoms affects each of us a little

> differently. They can be light or very severe. Mine

> always start in the chest, radiate to the back and out the

> arms. In some people it goes into the jaw and ears.

> I have also had them where they were just little nagging

> pains in the chest area and continue on and off for hours.

>

> Most of us have found ways to stop these pains, some

> require meds but some of us drink water, (some cold, some

> room temperature. some warm), others eat popsicles,

> cracker, etc. I drink cold water...when the pain first

> starts I gulp several large swallows and it will usually

> stop them. Keep trying different things until you find

> what works for you.

>

> Hope this helps you find what works for you.

>

> Maggie

> Alabama

>

[Guest guest]

,I'm sorry to hear you're having such a tough week. The chest pains, as someone already mentioned are most likely the non cardiac chest pain. When I first had mine I thought I was dying the pain was so horrible. It starts in my chest, goes up the throat and across my back and chest. I just wait it out. I have to try some of the suggestions like cold water maybe, I haven't had one in a couple months. As for just being able to get Ensure-type things down, keep trying those for nutrition. At times when I needed a botox treatment (had a dilation 12/05 so not too many problems since), they were too thick for me. Have you tried baby food fruit? I know it's not much, but sometimes slides down. Applesauce used to be too thick but the baby food one went down ok. Sometimes slurpees from 7-11 went down too. These worked until the point nothing went down at all. I hope this helps a bit.Good luck and be strong,

<mangoma@...> wrote: OK...so for the past few weeks I've started feeling this intense chest pain and was wondering if it's the same as having recently mentioned in other postings. It's different from heartburn as there's no funny acidy taste in my mouth nor the feeling of rising from my stomach and working it's way up. Plus antiacids and Prilosec don't seem to make any difference. I experienced heartburn in my pregnancies and it's different than this. I've seen "spasms" mentioned and I'm unclear as to what exactly it means. Mine seem to

come on and just hang around for awhile. Spasms to me would indiciate a coming and going/waxing and waning type of thing and this doesn't do that. I've never had any other type of chest pains so don't have any other type of reference. It's mid-chest level and very sharp intense. I do get them when I'm eating and the food gets stuck and not moving. But now it's happening even when I'm not eating. Is this a normal kind of thing with Achalasia? Any suggestions as to what's happening and what to do? I can tell the Botox has worn off and I've lost my desire for food due to it getting stuck and then throwing up. I'm moving towards the mushy liquid diet now. I do wake up hungry in the middle of the night...not liking that. Other than smoothies/Ensure/Carnation Instant Breakfasts any suggestions? My energy level is down. Unfortunately so is my patience level with the kids. The last few

days have been rough with this ongoing chest pain. Not going to win any Mom of the week awards. Cheers, __________________________________________________

[Guest guest]

Hello and good morning to all!

Thank you to everyone who wrote back regarding my chest pain

questions. Now I know to refer to it as NCCP. Learn something new

everyday about this weird Achalasia. I appreciate all the hints/tips

and will put them in my arsenal of stuff to try. Hmmm...I must eat

these popsicles to help with my chest pain! Yeah!!! :-) I know

better what to go back and read in the past postings, files and

databases to educate myself. Hopefully I won't have to go down the

medicine route before or after my surgery. Pills aren't going down

very easy anymore. Like ya'll don't already know about that. I've

discovered liquid Tylenol and that's been good to help.

Thanks again!

Cheers,

[Guest guest]

Dear , From myl imited experience of these pains, (yes, I know I am lucky), they certainly sound like spasms. Think of them as contractions, that don't come and go like labour pains, but hang on in there like a cramp in the leg. Some of the others recommend a prescribed drug. My solution is ice, in the form of ice cubes, ice cold water, ice lollies (popsicles) or ice cream. As for the mushy diet, I have recently become an expert at that too. (lol) Do you have weetabix where you live? If everything you eat looks like that, mashed up in warm milk, you are on to a winner. Try home-made soups and

stews, all hammered to death in the liquidiser. Make your own milk shakes with fresh strawberries, bananas, kiwis, melon, pears etc., milk and ice cream, greek yoghurt mixed with honey, jellies, custards, puddings, scrambled egg made lightly with milk, tinned spaghetti in tomato sauce and grated cheese, again liquidised to beggary! It's quite a nice diet really and if it goes down for you, the relief is worth the deprivation. When you are struggling to make up the calories you are entitled to eat all the naughty food - full fat milk, ice cream (my passion) and ground rice pudding - yummy !!! This regime will give you more energy and help with your patience levels. All the best lovey, from Ann in England xxx <mangoma@...> wrote: OK...so for the past few weeks I've started feeling this intense chest pain and was wondering if it's the same as having recently mentioned in other postings. It's different from heartburn as there's no funny acidy taste in my mouth nor the feeling of rising from my stomach and working it's way up. Plus antiacids and Prilosec don't seem to make any difference. I experienced heartburn in my pregnancies and it's different than this. I've seen "spasms" mentioned and I'm unclear as to what exactly it means. Mine seem to come on and just hang around for awhile. Spasms to me would indiciate a coming and going/waxing and waning type of thing and this

doesn't do that. I've never had any other type of chest pains so don't have any other type of reference. It's mid-chest level and very sharp intense. I do get them when I'm eating and the food gets stuck and not moving. But now it's happening even when I'm not eating. Is this a normal kind of thing with Achalasia? Any suggestions as to what's happening and what to do? I can tell the Botox has worn off and I've lost my desire for food due to it getting stuck and then throwing up. I'm moving towards the mushy liquid diet now. I do wake up hungry in the middle of the night...not liking that. Other than smoothies/Ensure/Carnation Instant Breakfasts any suggestions? My energy level is down. Unfortunately so is my patience level with the kids. The last few days have been rough with this ongoing chest pain. Not going to win any Mom of the week awards.

Cheers,

Try the all-new . "The New Version is radically easier to use" – The Wall Street Journal

[Guest guest]

Just try the scotch on the rocks without the scotch, . Ice is great for spasms, Bartolino <jfbartolino@...> wrote: Boy am I having chest pain sure seems different then spasms Chest up to my jaw hurts Hope lying down will help However today was a

good day got some food done Chicken broth with a little pastina for dinner And I have been drinking all day CArrie Better days for all Now I mean nutrient drinks What I would do for scotch on the rocks

All new "The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and ease of use." - PC Magazine

[Guest guest]

Ellie wrote: " Recently I have experienced a pain in my chest, usually on my

right side, that feels like a knife stabbing me. "

I have had an episode of pain under my right breastbone, I could hardly breathe.

I went to emergency, was told nothing was wrong, but I could not make an

appointment with my gastro for 6 days. By the time I saw him, I did not hurt

anymore. He was very upset that the ER told him that nothing was wrong, they

refered to some upset stomach, because if there was nothing wrong I should not

have hurt for 6 days. But at that point he could not determine what caused it.

And he would not speculate.

There have been others with the under the right breastbone pain on this site, I

hope they will chime in. I do think it had some connection to the liver or

gallbladder ( the x-rays and other tests they took at ER did not show any gall

stones,) problem. Clara from OR

.

[Guest guest]

Clara, I sometimes get the same feeling. I feel like I am being stabbed in the

front and exeting to the back. My doctor said this is common with my AIH.

Sometimes it is severe heartburn. I had an episode that lasted three days, went

to the ER and they said I have GERD. My GI doctor didnot think so. My levels

were also elevated at this time. Hope this helps MO

Re: [ ] Chest Pain

Ellie wrote: " Recently I have experienced a pain in my chest, usually on my

right side, that feels like a knife stabbing me. "

I have had an episode of pain under my right breastbone, I could hardly

breathe. I went to emergency, was told nothing was wrong, but I could not make

an appointment with my gastro for 6 days. By the time I saw him, I did not hurt

anymore. He was very upset that the ER told him that nothing was wrong, they

refered to some upset stomach, because if there was nothing wrong I should not

have hurt for 6 days. But at that point he could not determine what caused it.

And he would not speculate.

There have been others with the under the right breastbone pain on this site,

I hope they will chime in. I do think it had some connection to the liver or

gallbladder ( the x-rays and other tests they took at ER did not show any gall

stones,) problem. Clara from OR

.

[Guest guest]

Yes ! The pain sounds like it is esophageal spasms.Alot of people

with achalasia get them. If you go to the left side of the board and

look under files and data base you will see lots of ways that may

help make the pain go away.Some try chugging ice water as soon as

they feel them coming on to eating dry cereal.Diffrent things for

diffrent people work.The most common is chugging the cold water. I f

none of these work there are medicines that you can take.My son use

to be able to do the water thing but that stopped working and he now

takes a medicine called nifediphine when they come on.There are

several others out here as well people use.Some drops blood pressure

though so you would have to research which would be best if you

needed to take them.

I hope this helps.Let us know what works.

Tonia

-- In achalasia , " Love " <evelynlove@...>

wrote:

>

>

> Hi,

>

> I have [untreated thus far] achalasia and have been having mild

chest

> pain for about 10 minutes during each night for the past week.

Then I

> get a little headache for a short while. It concerns me because I

was

> diagnosed with a myocardiac infarction in February [slightly

elevated

> blood enzymes, irregular EKG, and chest pain.] The angiogram

showed that

> my arteries are clear. The echocariogram showed that I have a

strong

> heart. The cardiologist cannot explain the MI. I lift weights and

am

> active physically.

>

> Every night I'm worrying. Should I go to the hospital? I put a

> nitrogylcerin tablet under my tongue. I'm fine in the daytimes. I

hope

> someone on this board can give me some advice. Have any of you had

> experience with chest pain and achalasia? And I worry in the day

times

> too.

>

> Thanks,

>

> in CA

>

[Guest guest]

Love wrote:

.... I was diagnosed with a myocardiac infarction in February ...

What lead you to be tested in February? What kind of irregular EKG did

you have?

Many of us have had chest pain. We refer to it as spasms and NCCPs. You

can find a lot of discussion about this in the old messages by using

the search feature. These pains can indistinguishable from a heart

attack. Even if you have spasms you can not rule out the heart or other

sources of pain, such as the gallbladder.Your esophagus has smooth

muscles like the heart and nitroglycerin could work for either problem.

Do you cough or choke at night? Do you breath normally while sleeping?

notan

[slightly elevated blood enzymes, irregular EKG, and chest pain.]

The angiogram showed that my arteries are clear. The echocariogram

showed that I have a strong heart. The cardiologist cannot explain the

MI. I lift weights and am active physically.

Every night I'm worrying. Should I go to the hospital? I put a

nitrogylcerin tablet under my tongue. I'm fine in the daytimes. I hope

someone on this board can give me some advice. Have any of you had

experience with chest pain and achalasia? And I worry

in the day times too.

Thanks,

in CA

[Guest guest]

Hi I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation with probable reflux esophagitis in 1998. I had no chest pains just a racing heart. This only happened when I laid down or sat down to rest. While I was up walking around or working the heart did not race. I was placed on Atenonol which is a blood pressure medication, which helps keep the heart in rhythm. However, they do not know the causes for this other than something has interrupted the rhythm of the heart. Now when the heart gets out of rhythm I can have a headache and pain or weakness down my left arm but I have had a stress test and my heart is okay. Could some of your problems just be an irregular heartbeat along with A, which is what I now have diagnosed? I have had no chest pains with A other than when I would start spasms and the food would return. This could be a combinaton of both, but talk with your

doctor don't take chances in most cases of heartattack the pain will radiate down the left arm and the pain will be in the left side of the chest area, and possibly up the neck area is what they told me, also it would occur after exercise or stress. So I am thinking possibly you are having spasms and as you tense up it causes the muscles and blood vessels to restrict thus the headache. If you are concerned about your heart ask the doctor about doing a heart monitor that you can wear during the day and night to check on your heart while doing daily activity and at rest. Take care - will keep you in my prayers - Millie VA Love <evelynlove@...> wrote: Hi, I have [untreated thus far] achalasia and have been having mild chest pain for about 10 minutes during each night for the past week. Then I get a little headache for a short while. It concerns me because I was diagnosed with a myocardiac infarction in February [slightly elevated blood enzymes, irregular EKG, and chest pain.] The angiogram showed that my arteries are clear. The echocariogram showed that I have a strong heart. The cardiologist cannot explain the MI. I lift weights and am active physically. Every night I'm worrying. Should I go to the hospital? I put a nitrogylcerin tablet under my tongue. I'm fine in the daytimes. I hope someone on this board can give me some advice.

Have any of you had experience with chest pain and achalasia? And I worry in the day times too. Thanks, in CA

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