Hernia doctors near me

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Hernia treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Hernia

Hiatus hernia, a condition where part of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, is increasingly common, affecting millions globally. It often goes unnoticed due to its silent nature but can lead to discomfort and serious complications if left untreated. The prevalence of hiatus hernia is rising attributed to factors like obesity, aging, and other lifestyle elements. Understanding this condition, its causes, symptoms, and natural treatment options is essential for those looking to manage it effectively.

Causes

The exact cause of a hiatus hernia is not always clear, but several factors are recognized to contribute to its development. Increased pressure in the abdomen from coughing, straining during bowel movements, heavy lifting, or obesity can push the stomach upwards. Age-related changes in the diaphragm also play a significant role, with the condition being more common in individuals over 50. Additionally, a congenitally large hiatus (the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes) can predispose individuals to this condition.

Signs and symptoms

- Heartburn, especially after eating or at night - Belching - Difficulty swallowing - Feeling of fullness or bloating - Regurgitation of food or liquids into the mouth - Unexplained chest or abdominal pain - Shortness of breath (in severe cases) It's important to note that many people with a small hiatus hernia may not experience any symptoms.

Diagnosing Hernia

A hiatus hernia is predominantly diagnosed through imaging tests. An upper gastrointestinal (GI) series or endoscopy can visualize the stomach's position in relation to the diaphragm. During an endoscopy, a thin tube with a camera is passed down your throat, allowing the doctor to see the inside of your stomach and esophagus. This method not only confirms the presence of a hiatus hernia but can also assess the severity and check for possible complications like esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus.

Prevention and natural treatment

While some risk factors like age or congenital issues cannot be modified, many lifestyle adjustments can prevent or help manage a hiatus hernia. Weight management is crucial; obesity can increase abdominal pressure and exacerbate symptoms. Adopting a diet high in fiber and low in acidic, spicy, and fatty foods can also relieve symptoms related to acid reflux, a common complaint among those with hiatus hernia. Natural treatment methods focus on strengthening the diaphragm and the lower esophageal sphincter to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Gentle exercises such as yoga or pilates that target the core without straining the abdomen can be beneficial. Herbal remedies, like ginger tea for digestion or marshmallow root to soothe inflamed mucous membranes, can complement dietary and lifestyle changes. In terms of functional medicine, a holistic approach in identifying and treating the underlying causes of a hiatus hernia, such as inflammation or imbalance in gut bacteria, can be very effective. Supplementation with probiotics, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds—always under the guidance of a healthcare provider—can support the body's natural healing processes and alleviate symptoms. Embracing a comprehensive approach that incorporates dietary adjustments, lifestyle modifications, and possibly supplementary natural treatments can effectively manage hiatus hernia symptoms and improve quality of life.

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