Hiatal Hernia in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is a hiatal hernia?
Hiatal hernias are widespread among patients in the U.S. Your esophagus (food tube) goes through a small portion of your diaphragm and then joins with the stomach. The small gap is referred to as the hiatus. A hiatal hernia occurs when the top portion of your stomach thrusts upward through the hiatus and reaches your diaphragm. When you suspect you have symptoms of this condition or require help for a hiatal hernia in Denver, CO, it is advised to meet with a digestive health specialist. Please schedule an appointment at Colorado Gastroenterology now to visit a gastrointestinal specialist.
What are the causes of a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia is usually caused by weak muscle groups and connective tissue in and around the hiatus. A few of the most typical reasons and risk factors for a hiatal hernia include:
- Being obese
- Age-associated changes in your diaphragm muscles
- Changes in your hiatus related to trauma or surgery
- Individuals over age 50
- Those born with an unusually large hiatus
- Chronic coughing
- Throwing up
- Pushing hard when you have a bowel movement
- Working out with heavy weights
What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?
The indicators of a hiatal hernia may differ according to the severity of the issue. Nonetheless, there are a handful of common symptoms that are seen when a hiatal hernia is present. These can include:
- Blackened bowel movements
- Vomiting blood
- Acid reflux and heartburn
- Abdominal aches
- Trouble getting a breath
- Discomfort in the chest
- Difficulty swallowing
In the event that you notice one or more of the hiatal hernia symptoms listed here, don't hesitate to reach out to our Denver, CO gastroenterology team to set up a consultation.
How is a hiatal hernia treated?
Many patients who have small hiatal hernias will not need any intervention; however, our physicians at Colorado Gastroenterology are ready to provide support if you need it. If you are dealing with symptoms associated with a hiatal hernia, a few standard interventions include:
- Reduce GERD with diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Acid reflux medications
- Stop smoking
- Sleep with your head elevated
- Avoid lying down once you finish a meal
- Surgery
Boost your digestive wellness
At Colorado Gastroenterology, our physicians are here to help you and your family get the solutions you need for improved digestive well-being. When you’ve dealt with persistent acid reflux or different hiatal hernia issues that you’ve been unable to manage, it might be time to find professional help. To visit a gastrointestinal provider who provides treatment for a hiatal hernia in Denver, CO, we welcome you to reach out to our practice today.
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Dr Rufner is very knowledgeable and professional. He offered great insight, and was very detailed.
Dr. Rufner was kind and patient, taking the time to walk me through the GI issues I had and why I had them, and suggested several different routes of treatment. Everyone in the office was also pleasant and professional. Great experience all around!
Dr. Rufner was informative, friendly, and ran his office on time. What more could you ask for in a physician?
Everyone in the office was super friendly, efficient, and professional. As good of a doctor’s office visit as I have ever experienced.
I thought the Doctor was very knowledgeable and a delight to talk to. I was referred to other specialist that are going to help manage my health. Very pleased with the staff.
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