Abdominal Hernia/GERD

I'm looking for any type of help I can get.  I'm a 41 year old woman who's been suffering with cronic (chronic) stomach pain for years.  About 4 years ago, I decided I would fight to get it solved....and still to no avail.  I've gone to doctor after doctor and told them I have the stomach pain, mainly when I eat something, but it's constant.  I have dealt with constipation since I was little, and not had to deal with diarhea (diarrhea) much whatsoever.  I've gained about 30 pounds in 3 years, and eat healthier than ever, plus run about 4 days a week (30 mins each time).  My appetite is very small, but no one believes that due to my weight gain.  I thought for sure it was thyroid since my sister has that, but no.  I have a large growth in my abdomen that became apparent around 4 years ago.  I was told it's a hernia, but to do nothing about it.  I have no ability to vomit, or burb, so whatever I put in my body, stays there.  I do get hoarseness periodically.  And for the past two days, the site of my hernia is EXTREMELY sensitive to the touch, where it hasn't been till now.  I ran to the ER yesterday with pain and numbness on the left side of my body (only), and they confirmed a hernia with GERD, but didn't offer a solution besides Prilosec (which I've taken before).  I'm very interested in the procedure to fix the hernia, and would like professional advice to see if that might take all of my problems away at once.

[Forum-M.D.-]

It seems like surgical options needs to be considered at this point.

An upper endoscopy can rule out most other causes, including an ulcer or inflammation of the upper digestive tract.

A 24-hr pH study can be done to quantify the severity of the GERD.

However, if medications are not effective, a referral to a surgeon should be considered to repair the hernia.  One at an academic medical center is recommended.

This options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[ATALOSS79]

A related discussion, constant stomache and back pain was started.