Hiatal Hernia in Utah
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Find a ProviderWhat is a hiatal hernia?
Hiatal hernias are a common occurrence for individuals living in the United States. In your diaphragm, there is a small gap that creates space for the esophagus (the natural pipe that moves food into your digestive tract after swallowing) to pass through before it connects to the stomach. This little gap is referred to as the hiatus. A hiatal hernia arises when a part of your stomach pushes up into the hiatus and bulges out into your chest cavity. When you believe you have symptoms that point to this condition or would like treatment for a hiatal hernia in Utah, it is essential to speak with a gastroenterology doctor. We urge you to arrange an appointment at Utah Gastroenterology today to get in with a gastrointestinal provider.
What leads to a hiatal hernia?
Hiatal hernias often develop as a result of weak or compromised muscles and soft tissue in the area around the hiatus. The most common causes and risk factors for a hiatal hernia include:
- Damage to your hiatus resulting from trauma or surgery
- Age-associated weakening in your diaphragm
- People older the age of 50
- Throwing up
- Persistent coughing
- Lifting heavy weights
- Pushing hard to pass a bowel movement
- Obesity
- Being born with an abnormally big hiatus
What are the signs of a hiatal hernia?
You may experience a variety of hiatal hernia symptoms depending on the severity of your condition. Even so, hiatal hernias are usually recognized by a few common signs. These may consist of:
- Black or tarry stools
- Vomiting blood
- Difficulty swallowing
- Trouble breathing
- Stomach aches
- Pain in the chest
- Heartburn and acid reflux
If you have any of the hiatal hernia symptoms named here, please reach out to our Utah gastroenterologists to set up a consultation.
How are hiatal hernias treated?
Smaller hiatal hernias may resolve without the need for treatment, but the skilled providers at Utah Gastroenterology stand ready to offer care if you need help. When you are experiencing issues, a few frequent interventions for a hiatal hernia include:
- Acid reflux medicines
- Surgery
- Stopping smoking
- Maintain your ideal weight
- Sleep with your head elevated
- Try not to lie flat after eating
- Reduce acid reflux by changing your diet
Enhance your digestive wellness
At Utah Gastroenterology, it is our goal to help each and every one of our patients find the care they need to enjoy a life free of some of the issues that come with GI troubles. When you've had persistent heartburn or other hiatal hernia issues that you're not able to deal with, it might be time to locate expert help. To consult with a GI provider who provides treatment for a hiatal hernia in Utah, we welcome you to contact our practice today.
Reviews
I’ve been going to Utah Gastroenterology for decades. I’ve been through a few doctors- others moved out of State and I gained a new doctor. Every doctor I’ve met is top notch! Now I’m seeing Dr Christopher Maxwell. He’s a great listener, fast typer, and above all, great at determining the root cause of an issue. So, I’m sticking with him. I had a terrible Nissen Fundoplication, aka it’s where the surgeon wraps your stomach around your esophagus like a hot dog in a bun to control reflux from a hiatal hernia. I don’t think this procedure is done anymore but if you run into a gastroenterologist or surgeon who recommends it, RUN AWAY as fast you can. This procedure was NOT done by any Utah Gastroenterology Physician. I’m seeing them and receiving help from them for all the harm this procedure did to me. They’ve been a blessing to help me heal. Dr Maxwell represents the best medical care available. And, the doctors at Utah Gastroenterology are not shy to seek outside secondary opinions because I was sent to the UofU to see a lead gastroenterologist there and he agreed with the treatment plan at Utah Gastroenterology, medicine has got to learn how to shorten the Latin for us simple folks!
My experience was very nice you were very helpful in explaining what could be wrong with me
Dr Wills is very kind and always takes the time to address any concerns I may have. He is an excellent doctor!
Dr. Moore was both personable and professional. I was very comfortable with our discussion and open to his suggestions.
I’ve been going to Utah Gastroenterology for decades. I’ve been through a few doctors- others moved out of State and I gained a new doctor. Every doctor I’ve met is top notch! Now I’m seeing Dr Christopher Maxwell. He’s a great listener, fast typer, and above all, great at determining the root cause of an issue. So, I’m sticking with him. I had a terrible Nissen Fundoplication, aka it’s where the surgeon wraps your stomach around your esophagus like a hot dog in a bun to control reflux from a hiatal hernia. I don’t think this procedure is done anymore but if you run into a gastroenterologist or surgeon who recommends it, RUN AWAY as fast you can. This procedure was NOT done by any Utah Gastroenterology Physician. I’m seeing them and receiving help from them for all the harm this procedure did to me. They’ve been a blessing to help me heal. Dr Maxwell represents the best medical care available. And, the doctors at Utah Gastroenterology are not shy to seek outside secondary opinions because I was sent to the UofU to see a lead gastroenterologist there and he agreed with the treatment plan at Utah Gastroenterology, medicine has got to learn how to shorten the Latin for us simple folks!
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4.9
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