Major problem, please help!

[LarryG]

Hello everyone. I have PPMS and am quadriplegic. I am having a major problem with the feeding tube I got six months ago. Hopefully someone can help. I currently use Nestlé Compleat as my food of choice. Whenever I do a feeding, within about 1 to 2 hours, I develop MAJOR congestion in my lungs and cough up mucus and phlegm for several hours afterwards. I am a silent aspirator as well. I’m trying to figure out how it is getting into my lungs. At first I thought I was having reflux so I started taking Reglan to stimulate digestion but there was no change. This congestion problem happens without fail every time I do a feeding. I have tried everything I can think of such as more time in between feedings, amounts, more or less feedings per day, different foods, etc. Nothing works. Can anyone offer any advice? How in the world can this liquid food make its way into my lungs? Is that even possible? Two months ago I ended up in the hospital with bacterial pneumonia because of it. I am stumped.

[Scott1]

Hi Larry,
I don't have to deal with these issues, and I doubt many people on these pages have your severe problems. Nonetheless, I had a look to see what I could find.
One possibility is the feeding tube is not inserted far enough into the stomach, causing liquid to be aspirated into the lungs. Another cause may be the feeding tube is pushed into the pleural space (between the lungs and the chest wall) creating a leak into the space.
It may be something else, but I am not the expert.
From what you have said, this problem starts six months ago with a change of feeding tube. That suggests a variable has changed at that point. I think you need a different set of eyes reviewing how that system works. Six months ago seems to be when something has changed. If the same people are making the same mistake, the same problem will reoccur. I would ask for a second opinion about how this problem has developed. You shouldn't be the person who has to solve this issue.

[NHE]

I think you need a different set of eyes reviewing how that system works. Six months ago seems to be when something has changed. If the same people are making the same mistake, the same problem will reoccur. I would ask for a second opinion about how this problem has developed. You shouldn't be the person who has to solve this issue.

Great idea. It's time for a 2nd opinion from a new GI.

[LarryG]

Thanks to everyone for the advice. I will consult my doctor later this month.