Difficulty swallowing or painful swallowing that is progressively worsening like you have is always a concern. This could be caused by worsening acid reflux due to the changes in the esophagus layer. This could also be related to your hernia. Most importantly, you need to go see a medical professional who can help. You will most likely need a gastroenterologist who can perform an EGD to look at the lining of the esophagus and take a biopsy. Overtime, from long standing acid reflux, you can get esophagus cancer. Therefore, I would highly recommend getting screened for esophageal cancer, as well as worsening hernia. Continue your current anti-acids and avoid food that worsen you acid reflux. Also avoid large meals and eating at night. Spicey foods can worsen acid reflux.