I am so worried...

Hi all

I’ve been umming and ahhing about whether or not I should post this all morning but obviously I have decided to… It’s probably more of a way for me to get things off my chest than anything else. I am feeling pretty emotional & am struggling with my own head & trying to keep myself positive.

In June last year I developed a difficulty in swallowing. It progressively got worse to the point where I could only drink liquids. This phase lasted a month or so. Of course, I felt pretty weak and lost weight etc. However, since then my ability to swallow improved to the point where I could eat pretty much most things but it would take me a little longer than usual (but I could cope with this). I have been to numerous specialists & had lots of tests but no one has managed to find anything wrong with me (which is good, don’t get me wrong but it does mean whatever it is hasn’t been fixed yet).

Now here’s where it get’s “interesting”, over the past few days it has been getting more and more difficult to swallow and it doesn’t seem to make much difference if I’m eating soft foods such as yoghurt or banana etc.

To say that I am worried is the hugest understatement. Last year I went to see a lovely dietitian on several occassions who was able to get me eating foods that gave me the most nutrition & calories etc in every bite. At the time she did mention a liquid supplement which if needed, can be used as a sole source of nutrition. She didn’t seem to all concerned that this would prevent me from getting through a pregnancy.   

I must admit to having a few negative thoughts lately including abortion (which is absolutely terrible I know) but sometimes you can’t help it when your mind has a 1001 and things racing around in it.

Thanks girls, I think I really just needed to “speak” to someone about it. DH hasn’t been all that useful unfortunately. He says he doesn’t know what to say (& he probably doesn’t either!).

My friends mum had the same problem, to the point where she ended up in hospital very ill. She then got a stomach feeder, where she had to syringe food in through a tube directly into her stomach. That probably doesn't help, as hopefully is worse than what you are experiencing.

She ended up having some kind of auto immune disease which affected her eosaphagus

The only thing I can think of to say is just imagine those who have extreme morning sickness and can't keep a thing down anyway. At least there is a drink that you can have which has all the right stuff in it!

I hope though that eventually they figure out whats up with you and how they can fix it!!

Hi Sally, that must be terribly frustrating and worrying for you . When is your next mw appointment? If it's not soon then ring her. She can probably refer you to a specialist - if she can't then get to see your GP right away. It's important for yours and the baby's health that you explore all avenues and get some treatment, or at least diet supplement, which is good for you and baby.

There are heaps of nutritional drink supplements that now you know what to expect can be given to you. You will be fine - it is more important that you look after yourself and try not to worry. Hugs!