Possible candidate for surgey

25 male, with GERD for many years. However did not give me problems until about 2 years ago. Atypical symptons included, SOB, coughing, ect.

Have tried diet, medications, with some impovment, but not too much. Only thing left to try is to cut out chewing tobbaco.

I do have a hitiaus hernia measuring 5 cm.

My questions.

Just having the 5 cm hernia and GERD, is this a common reason for surgey, or are there many people with a hernia of this size that does not need correct.  ie* is a hernia this size a concern that would need surgey (sliding type)

and do you think qutting the snuff would have a significant impact, and should this be somthing I def do before I look it surgey?

My endo, from 7 months ago, show a normal stomach, but grad A esopoghauts, with one lession less that 5 mm, no other lesion were seen. Some redness and inflamation (inflammation) of course also.

Thanks

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
Hiatal hernia affects the lower esophageal valve mechanism and predisposes to GERD.
Medications and lifestyle modifications would help to control symptoms.
But if the symptoms still persist, the hiatal hernia which is a predisposing factor should be corrected with surgery.
Since you have symptoms not controlled with medications and lifestyle modifications, surgery is the next option.
Cutting down tobacco chewing may to some extent provide relief.
But with all the lifestyle adjustments you have done and still having symptoms, cutting the only other habit may not bring any drastic improvement.