Hiatal Hernia in Baton Rouge, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is a hiatal hernia?
Hiatal hernias are common among patients in the United States. The food tube (esophagus) moves through a little part of the diaphragm and then attaches to the stomach. The small cleft is termed the hiatus. A hiatal hernia occurs when the top part of your stomach bulges up through the hiatus and enters your diaphragm. If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms that reveal this issue or would like help for a hiatal hernia in Baton Rouge, LA, it is recommended to speak with a gastroenterology doctor. We encourage you to request an appointment at Gastroenterology Associates now to get started.
What causes a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia is frequently caused by weakened muscles and soft tissue in and surrounding the hiatus. Some of the most common causes and factors that increase the risk of a hiatal hernia are:
- People older age 50
- Those born with an unusually large hiatus
- Vomiting
- Obesity
- Damage in your hiatus resulting from trauma or a surgical procedure
- Excessive coughing
- Age-related changes in your diaphragm
- Exercising with heavy weights
- Straining to pass a bowel movement
What are the signs of a hiatal hernia?
The signs of a hiatal hernia may depend based on the severity of the concern. Nonetheless, there are several general symptoms of a hiatal hernia. These can include:
- Throwing up blood
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Chest discomfort
- Tarry or black stools
- Difficulty swallowing
- Abdominal discomfort
- Trouble breathing
How are hiatal hernias treated?
Most patients with small hiatal hernias will not require any treatment, but our specialists at Gastroenterology Associates are equipped to offer treatment if needed. If you are experiencing symptoms, some common treatments for a hiatal hernia at our Baton Rouge, LA locations include:
- Stop smoking
- Keep your ideal weight
- Acid reflux medications
- Sleep with your head elevated
- Surgery
- Diminish acid reflux by changing your diet
- Try not to lie down after you eat
Elevate your GI wellness
At Gastroenterology Associates, our providers are committed to helping you and your family get the solutions you need for elevated GI wellness. When you’ve had persistent heartburn or other hiatal hernia symptoms that you're not able to manage, it might be time to find expert treatment. If you want to meet with a GI physician who specializes in treatment for a hiatal hernia in Baton Rouge, LA, we welcome you to get in touch with any one of our locations to request a consultation.
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Texas Digestive Disease (Gastroenterology of BR) is the place to go for all gastro health care. From check in until check out, all staff is very knowledgeable, caring, and professional. And I love Dr. Christensen! He is the best!
Dr Labrano has been caring for me for years. She’s extremely patient with me and extremely honest. She was part of a care team that literally saved my life Back on 2012.
Dr Be is great. I truly believes he genuinely cares about my medical concerns. He takes the time to sit and talk about everything. I never feel rushed! His np and pa are excellent as well and will tell you exactly what you need to do to get better. I love this team!
This was my first visit with Dr Barker. He was recommended to me by someone else in the field and I was very impressed with his knowledge and willingness to listen. He was pleasant and easy to talk to. I would highly recommend him.
I was referred to Dr. Chauvin by my primary care physician. During our initial meeting, Dr. Chauvin listened to my concerns, identified the issues, and came up with a plan to provide solutions. He has a wonderful personality, shows a high level of empathy, and is especially easy to talk to. I felt as if I was being heard, which is of the utmost importance to me when cultivating a relationship with any health care provider.
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