I am so sorry that I cannot offer you more information, but here is what I do know about this condition. Gastritis in general, untreated, can potentially lead to cancer- it is a pre-ulcer state of the stomach lining, which over time has the potential to cause problems. Aside from that, as for the gallbladder problems, I don't know of anyone who developed gastritis after this surgery, but I have heard of other issues being linked to gallbladder removal- so it probably would not surprise me. Treatment wise- ignore what you see online. Gastritis is a very personal experience in regards to timing and healing- as well as treatment and the effectiveness of each treatment. If you feel your medication is not working, I would speak to your GI. There are other options and perhaps there is one that may be more effective. In fact, personally, I find it help to ask questions anytime I am worried about a treatment, diagnosis or even simply a day-to-day symptom. It may seem an annoyance to call, but if it brings you comfort and it potentially can give your doctor more insight into your case, really it is better than suffering in silence.

Finally, as I am sure you are somewhat aware, there is a strong link between GI issues and anxiety/depression- so just make sure that you are in control of this situation, especially since you are already concerned about what is going on. Again, be your own best advocate and fight for your health- always and at all levels.

Best wishes and good luck!

I can't add much, either... except to say that it seems that Bile Reflux is a somewhat common symptom of post-gallbladder surgery. Bile reflux is much like GERD, only somewhat harder to treat with meds.
I only mention this because if it is bile reflux causing some of these issues, you'd treat it differently. We've had a few bile reflux sufferers on this board with gastritis. It may be worth asking your GI about... as there is data out there that seems to point to bile reflux developing after these surgeries. Nexium may or may not help bile reflux. A drug called Carafate is often used for bile reflux, and also off-label for gastritis. This is definitely worth asking your doctor about, as it's a very safe drug compared to anything else they give you. It's a coating medication that doesn't even enter your bloodstream. It binds with bile to prevent it from damaging stomach/throat, etc. I've been taking it as part of my gastritis healing process. It's mainly an ulcer-med, but these things are all similar.

Outside of that, I'm sorry to hear of your troubles. I also suffer with anxiety, but don't have so many physical issues going on... so I can imagine what it must be like to deal with.

I would just offer a couple of thoughts...

First off, at least you know what is going on. We live in an age where we can prevent disease to a large degree, and you sound like you're on top of this. Stay vigilant and don't settle for anything less than the best your doctors have to offer. You deserve to feel as good as you can feel. Given, there are limits on that for some of us, but keep at it.

Second, Raven is right about the anxiety. It just creates havoc on our bodies. Funny side-story... I just had a guided meditation led by a therapist where the point was for me to apologize to my stomach for what my anxiety had done to it. We both smiled and laughed a bit, but it really is true. Our brains can make life miserable for our organs. It really is imperative that you do whatever you have to do to get your anxiety under control, including therapy... and meds if need be.

Finally, how's your diet? Exercise? Since you're feeling a bit better, perhaps now is a time to really evaluate everything you're eating and your exercise routine to see what you can improve. Have you looked into things like alkaline/acidic food charts, anti-inflammatory diets, etc? Supplements and vitamins to protect your system?

Thank you both very much for your comments and advice. I am waiting to get into see my gastro and I will certainly ask him about the bile reflux possibility. I am working with a psychologist and have been for the last 7 mos - she is fabulous and has been teaching me anxiety coping skills as well as dealing with depression (I'm an avoider - so I've actually leared how to not run and hide and face things and cry it out!) Sadness has always been the most difficult emotion for me. I am going to apologize to my stomach ( I really like that!) and ask it to forgive me, for I did not know.

Thanks again- I will update when I find out what my next steps are going to be.

Sounds good. I am glad to hear that you are seeking and getting the help you need to try to get this under control. Acceptance of the issue and learning to deal with it is one of the biggest steps you can take to finding the healthier you, amongst the chaos. Hang in there and good luck.