If you experience persistent symptoms that interfere with daily activities, such as chronic heartburn, chest pain, or difficulty swallowing, consult a healthcare provider. Emergency symptoms, like sudden severe chest or abdominal pain, may indicate a strangulated hernia (a potentially life-threatening complication) and require immediate medical attention.

Do's:

• Follow a liquid diet for a few days, then gradually reintroduce soft foods.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Sleep with the head elevated to reduce reflux.
• Take prescribed medications as directed to reduce acid and help healing.

​​​​​​​ Don'ts:

• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least six weeks.
• Refrain from eating large meals or lying down right after eating.
• Limit foods and drinks that may cause reflux (caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods).
• Avoid smoking, as it can delay healing.

Disclaimer:

Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's important to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified physician. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.

For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:

1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8098-hiatal-hernia
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373379
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373385
4. https://columbiasurgery.org/conditions-and-treatments/hiatal-hernia
5. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-surgery-for-hiatal-hernias/
6. https://www.metropolisindia.com/blog/preventive-healthcare/understanding-hiatal-hernia-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-strategies#:~:text=traditional%20open%20surgery.-,Hiatal%20Hernia%20Surgery,oesophageal%20sphincter%20to%20prevent%20reflux.