Portal Hypertension Bleeding Varices caused by AIDS Meds No Hep A B or C

[bobbyb]

I am a long term survivor, probably since 1978 when both my partner and I got extremely ill with very high fevers,probably when Virus hit us.This was in San Francisco.
He died in 1985. I found out I was Positive in 86 when tests came out. Small KS spot on my upper arm was diagnosed in 1991,with nothing else major after. I refused to take AZT and I started Meds in 1994. I have been stable since then,except for P. Neuropathy. For the last 10 years my Liver enzymes have been elevated,as many others  at VA in SF. Doctors always said not to worry,that it was caused by Meds and Virus. Last year,felt ill,vomited blood, went to Emergency and was told I had Esophagus Varices caused by Portal Hypertension. non-Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension caused by DDI that I took years ago.I now live in Montreal,where I was born,and was in Hospital a few weeks ago,for a second bout of bleeding. My Liver is getting worse not better.
I was wondering if any of you out have this problem,which is apparently rare. It is like having a "Time Bomb" ticking inside. Thank you

[aztecan]

Hey Bobby,

I don't have your particular problem. It sounds rather scary to me, though.

I do know someone with esophogeal varices as a result of long-term Hep C infection. He had some type of surgery done to reduce or eliminate the bleeding and it has been successful so far.

DDI, like so many of the golden oldies we took so long ago, carries its own baggage, which, of course, we didn't know about at the time.

But we really didn't have too much choice either.

Your post does give me pause though, because I have had the elevated liver enzyme issue for quite a while now, coupled with non-alcoholic steato hepatitis. This was caused by being on Crixivan for 11 years, or at least that is what I was told.

I don't have much info for you, but wanted you to know I will keep you in my thoughts and send you lots of healing energy.

HUGS,

Mark

[veritas]

Bobby,

Sorry to hear about your issue. Here is a link that goes into detail concerning Portal Hypertension:

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/182098-overview

There are treatments available. They vary according to the status of the condition.

v

[clogger]

Bobby

I am in the same position at present had massive bleed month ago and had to have varices banded and since then have had them banded again. I am now on propananol for the portal hypertension and in discussion with liver specialist about a liver transplant and like you this is due to DDI. I know how you feel every time I vomit I am scared that this will start the bleed again but still beleive that there is something the specialists can do.

Clogger

[bobbyb]

Bobby here,Thanks for your replies,I truly appreciate it.
For those of you who have had elevated Liver Enzymes ask for Liver Ultrasound,I think this is the way to check for Portal hypertension.
I still have not seen a liver Specialist yet,but I am in the pipeline to get it.
On June 28 will get to see GI Doctor for follow up on last Endoscopy. Too bad I had to leave San Francisco because of the Economy. I miss the VA there,so efficient,and thorough and quick to get follow ups and Tests. Fortunately medical is free here in Quebec.
Being 69 years,I don't know about a Liver Transplant,although they did mention it,and having AIDS is not an issue. I will have to decide when the time comes.
Now I have problems with Atripla,that I have been taking since last September.
I have a weird rash on my back and front,not legs or arms. Seems when I scratch on one small bump it makes another in the the back hurt or feel. More like a neurological problem. I also have had terrible time getting to sleep,just cannot seem to be able to,and very uncomfortable. My Neuropathy which was gone has returned.I will not take another pill tonight and go see Doctor tomorrow. Sorry to vet on you nice people like this. I guess it is the price I have to pay for being well all these years,and finally being hit by all these Medical problems in my older age.
Thank you again
Bobby