
Shortness Of Breath, Heartburn, Raspy Voice, Sleep Onset Apnea. EKG Normal. Is It Hiatal Hernia?

Thanks for writing in.
If the cardiologist and pulmonologist have given you a clear the the symptoms of hiatal hernia seems accurate. However I would say it is Gastroesophageal reflux disease, hiatal hernia is a cause of GERD. A hiatal hernia with GERD just makes a little bit difficult to treat.
Either way the initial treat of hiatal hernia/GERD is proton pump inhibitors. You must take them from atleast 3 months before we consider any other treatment options including surgery. Surgery is the last option and done only if you donot have relief from all other medical options.
You don't to give up excersicing but avoid weight if possible. You need to take care not to bend too during excersicing. Bending forward would make the symptoms worse. Apart from that you can continue with rest of your routine. Also avoid taking heavy meals at bedtime and try sleeping with your head elevated with an extra pilllow at bed time. If meals are causing problem you can have small frequent meals instead of 2-3 large meals in a day and avoid excerscing 1-2 hrs after eating.
Hope this answers your question
Regards
Dr. Om Lakhani

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
