Hugh

About 3 years ago I was having great difficulty swallowing, and would choke on the smallest morsel. Even if I tied to wash it down with a drink, I would choke and regurgitate it all back.I went to see my doctor and she sent me for an Endoscopy at Wessex Hospital, Winchester. This was carried out by a Dr, Laing (I think).

Having had a Local Anaesthetic, he pushed the tube down my throat and about 15 to 20 minutes later, the procedure was over, having taken several biopsies. Dr Laing then told me that I had 10cm. of “Barrett’s oesophagus” and a Hiatus Hernia. Fortunately, although he had taken the biopsies for analysis, generally my Oesophagus wasn’t too bad. I was then put on some acid reduction tablets which seemed to do the trick and I have not had any “Reflux” since. (Touch Wood).

About 6 months later I went to the Southampton General for a chat with the Consultant Dr Patel and for a further Endoscopy, carried out by Sister Shirley, again under a “Local”. Sister Shirley took biopsies and confirmed what the first procedure had shown up. I was also signed up to the BOSS programme (Barrett’s Oesophagus Study), on a 2 year cycle.

On Sunday 27th January 2013, I was called back for my 2 yearly inspection and underwent an other Endoscopy at Southampton General. Again under a “Local Anaesthetic”, further biopsies were taken and I had a follow up in March. The actual “Barrett’s Oesophagus” has not diminished any, (I had hoped it might have reduced). Apparently it will not reduce, but the Hiatus Hernia has reduced and I do feel much better now, and look forward to another 2 years trouble free. I can recommend the “Local Anaesthetic” because one does not feel so drowsy after the procedure.