Night reflux/night cough 6 years after getting gastric band. Is it worth emptying and trying again?

Question

I’ve had my gastric band for 6 years and in the last 3 i started having heartburn and night coughs . I’ve had a X-ray and no issues were found. What I don’t understand is I can g with no problems, no night cough no heartburn then suddenly I’ll have it for days at a time … can’t sleep for 2 nights because cant Lay down or sit up to sleep. - night cough just horrendous! Would It be worth emptying and trying again? I feel like I’m justputting up with the issue and it’s probably bad. I’m so fed up

H. Joseph Naim, MD, FACS · Answer

Definitely go and see a Bariatric Surgeon with experience in Lap-Band.Emptying the band would most likely resolve your issues, but it may cause regaining some of your weight.So start by avoiding "eating & drinking" 2-3 hours before going to bed. Also sleep on a pillow, or elevate your mattress head if possible or place bricks under head of the bed to create gravity for gastric contents.You will need an x-ray swallow study to make sure that the band is not slipped, and/or your pouch or esophagus are not dilated.If all fails, consider opening the band or revising it to gastric sleeve or gastric bypass.

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Night reflux/night cough 6 years after getting gastric band. Is it worth emptying and trying again?

Answers (1)

LAP BAND PROVIDERS NEAR YOU