ulcerated fistula

Question
Hello,

Could you please tell me the symptoms of a fistula?I have HORRIBLE acid reflux.I had gastric bypass almost 8 years ago.I am anemic, and always tired.
I experienced bad upper abdominal pain over the weekend .It was stabbing pains.I drove to the ER and they said maybe an ulcer , and a Catscan said suspicious fistula?

Answer
Therese,
I suspect the type of fistula they are referring to from the CT scan is a connection between your small stomach pouch and the larger lower part of your stomach that has been bypassed.  A fistula like this can certainly cause upper abdominal burning, pain, spasm (although it is not the only thing that can cause such symptoms).

The first thing for treatment usually is an acid-blocking medicine like prilosec.  Because of your severe pain, I definitely recommend for you to be seen by your bariatric surgeon for additional discussion and evaluation.  If your surgeon is not available, I recommend for you to obtain a referral from your primary doctor or find one on the Center of Excellence website at:

http://www.surgicalreview.org/locate.aspx

Best of luck!
Dr JP

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