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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
hiatal hernia
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
hiatal hernia
by suzie-q, Nov 22, 2001 12:00AM
I had an upper endoscopy and the results found I had a small hiatal hernia causing a gap between my stomach and esophagus.
The Dr. has me on Previcad 30mg. and wants me to continue taking them for another month, then try going without.
My question is if I will always have the hernia, which has caused a gap why wouldn't the Dr's. choose NOT to close the gap, rather than take the meds. Especially if this is something I will have for the rest of my life (I am 51)
I understand that the acid reflux can cause serious damage to the lining of the esophagus, I was having pain in the upper stomach and in the area between my breast bone. I did not have the acid in the throat.
Is this normal procedure? What can I expect if I continue the meds.The meds. dont cure the problem by closing the gap they just releive the symtoms correct?
The Dr. has me on Previcad 30mg. and wants me to continue taking them for another month, then try going without.
My question is if I will always have the hernia, which has caused a gap why wouldn't the Dr's. choose NOT to close the gap, rather than take the meds. Especially if this is something I will have for the rest of my life (I am 51)
I understand that the acid reflux can cause serious damage to the lining of the esophagus, I was having pain in the upper stomach and in the area between my breast bone. I did not have the acid in the throat.
Is this normal procedure? What can I expect if I continue the meds.The meds. dont cure the problem by closing the gap they just releive the symtoms correct?
Member Comments (2)
by Dr. Erik, Nov 22, 2001 12:00AM
That is correct that the Prevacid will control your symptoms but not cure the problem. You should give the prevacid a try.If it works then you won't need surgery. However, if you continue to have problems even with the medications, surgery to repair the hernia is an option.
by Baseball_Mom, Nov 22, 2001 12:00AM
And if Prevacid doesn't work well for you ask your doctor about Nexium. It is the best prescription drug on the market (in my opinion) to combat acid reflux. The surgery done to repair the hiatal hernia is not a lifetime fix. It is called Nissen Fundoplication and is suppose to last about 10 years. Mine only lasted 6 1/2 years and now my acid reflux is back. I'm taking Nexium and it works GREAT!
