The symptoms you describe are very similar to my own which started a few years ago. There is much that is unknown about MALS including any congenital and hereditary aspects. I do find it interesting that your uncle has it though. Studies show that MALS is more common than they thought and some people exhibit no symptoms while others have severe, debilitating symptoms. I’ve had CT angiography with and without contrast, mesenteric duplex ultrasound to check blood flow through the celiac artery and compression of the celiac plexus, an MRA and MRV, a swallow test to check flow through the duodenum, and a jugular venogram. Have you had some of these tests done already? I have celiac artery compression syndrome (basically the same as MALS), Nutcracker Syndrome (renal vein compression) and pelvic congestion syndrome (L ovarian varicose vein). These diseases can sometimes present together. Do not let these doctors tell you this is all in your head. Remember that they work for you! Educate yourself and advocate for yourself. I am sending my records to a MALS surgeon in Connecticut for another opinion (Richard Tsu, MD). I found his name on the Facebook MALS Pals support group site. You might be interested in checking that out. I pray that you’ll get some answers and experience relief from these annoying, painful problems soon. Also, you are not alone! There are many of us.

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