How to diagonise hiatus hernia or gerd

[Nandurkar]

My wife age 42 is suffering from upper stomoche stiffness combined with acidity , burning sensetion & out of breathe feeling. We got gastroscopy done and then the outcome was indicated as Esophagus - Lax Hiatus.Doctor recomended Rablet 20 and Motillium m 10 , twice and thrice a day respectively  for about a month. He also sugegsted small fod intake at 4/5 times rather than having heavy food twice and suggested walk for 30 min. We want to know if this is right prescription as she is still not comfortable after 4 days of medicine , but slightly improved. How do we know if she has hiatus hernia or gerd and it may need surgery. Any suggestion in this will help us to take right & quck decision.

Nandurkar

[Ratnakar Kini]

Hi,
Hiatal hernia can be diagnosed with endoscopy and barium xrays.
GERD can be diagnosed with 24 hours pH monitoring test. Endoscopy will show if there are any complications due to GERD.
Hiatal hernia increases the risk of GERD.
Her doctor has prescribed the right medications which she has to take for 4-8 weeks.
Certain lifestle modifications also important for complete relief-
1. Weight reduction if obese
2. Small frequent feeds
3. Eating 2-3 hours prior to sleeping
4. Avoiding alcohol, cola, citrus and spicy food
5. Avoiding tight dresses
6. Keeping the head elevated while sleeping.

[Joni686]

If she had an EDG done the doctor would have seen a hiatal hernia and told you.  I don't know about the medication she is on.  I have a HH and I take Kapadex 60mg. twice a day, it helps.  Also, not eating late or eating too much does help.
Aloe vera juice and staying away from fatty foods is a must.
Hope some of this helps.