Hello,

Thanks for posting your query.

First of all, regardless of symptoms, "paraesophageal hiatal hernias should be repaired - in order to prevent complications and the repair is done mostly laparascopically". The laparoscope is a thin, telescope-like instrument with a camera on the end that enables the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen. With this type of surgery, small incisions are made in the abdomen.

After the surgical procedure, you must only eat pureed foods for 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery. Then you can progress to soft foods and, in 4 to 6 weeks, return to the normal diet.

You are advised no heavy lifting for 4 weeks, chewing food thoroughly, avoiding carbonated beverages, gum, and smoking.

It is true that possible complications include difficulty swallowing, flatulence and gas bloating but these symptoms should improve with time. Avoid alcohol or drinks with caffeine in them, chocolate or spicy or greasy foods and instead take cold foods preferably liquids like milk and yoghurt.

It also might help to avoid eating or drinking for two hours before you lie down. You may also need antacids and proton pump inhibitor drugs for controlling the stomach acid.

Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.

Regards.

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Hello,

You should take small portions of food only during the first 6 weeks and then you can have normal portions. Similarly, the proton pump inhibitors will be required only during the first 6 weeks.

You need to avoid too much of coffee, tea, spicy foods even after 6 weeks.

I sincerely hope that helps.

Best Regards.

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