Hi everyone,
I’m finally getting Botox tomorrow (under general anesthesia) for what’s been diagnosed as R-CPD, but my case feels really atypical and complicated, so I wanted to share everything and see if anyone has had a similar experience.
Main symptoms:
I basically cannot burp normally (since years ago)
Severe upper abdominal/chest pressure and bloating
Gas feels “stuck” under the sternum / upper abdomen
Brain fog and extreme sleepiness when bloated (this part is really debilitating)
Weird part:
I can do “inhale burps” (forced air in → small release, but no relief)
After my first Botox attempt, I can sometimes burp a tiny bit only after drinking liquids (water, soda, etc.), but still no real relief
Carbonated drinks can trigger small burps quickly, but they don’t feel like gas is coming from the stomach
Medical background (this is where it gets complicated):
Narcolepsy (on stimulants like Vyvanse)
Scoliosis (thoracic + lumbar, stable for years)
Symptoms got significantly worse after COVID (late 2022)
Severe functional bloating / possible gut motility issues
Tests / treatment history:
HRM (not carbonated provocation): UES seems normal during swallowing (which I know is common in R-CPD), but LES may have elevated residual pressure (possible EGJOO?)
Had one EMG-guided Botox + balloon dilation before (awake, no anesthesia) — almost no improvement, possibly poor technique
Some manual therapy on my lower spine once triggered a real burp from deep in my stomach (first time in years)
My concerns:
I’m worried this might not be “classic” R-CPD
Maybe UES + LES or motility issues are both involved?
Since I can swallow normally, I’m confused how this fits
Also wondering if autonomic / post-COVID / neurological factors play a role
Now:
Today I’m getting Botox again, this time under general anesthesia (different hospital, more experienced team).
I really, really want this to work, because the bloating and brain fog are honestly ruining my daily life.
Questions:
Has anyone had a similar “atypical” case (can swallow, partial burps, but no real relief)?
Anyone with possible LES / motility issues still benefit from UES Botox?
If your first Botox failed, did the second one (especially under GA) work better?
Did Botox ever “unlock” the burp reflex even if tests didn’t look classic?
Any experiences would mean a lot to me right now. Thank you so much😿😿