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Hiatal Hernia

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating hiatal hernias, offering tailored care plans from lifestyle adjustments to laparoscopic surgery. With over 15 years of expertise, he aims to relieve severe reflux and improve quality of life.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age-related weakening of the diaphragm
  • Increased abdominal pressure (obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting)
  • Smoking, which weakens muscles and connective tissue
  • Family history of hiatal hernia

Signs and Symptoms

  • Heartburn or acid reflux after meals
  • Chest or upper abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Regurgitation of food or liquids
  • Shortness of breath, especially with larger hernias

How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Hiatal Hernia

Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms such as heartburn, chest or upper abdominal discomfort, trouble swallowing, or regurgitation and evaluates risk factors like obesity, smoking, or history of heavy lifting. During the physical exam, he gently checks for abdominal tenderness and observes breathing or positional triggers.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Dr. Scott uses a flexible tube with a camera to inspect the esophagus and stomach. This confirms the presence and type of hiatal hernia, helps identify any inflammation, ulcers, or signs of reflux-related damage.

Barium Swallow X-ray

  • You drink a barium solution that coats your upper digestive tract.
  • X-ray images reveal the size and location of the hernia and show whether stomach contents are refluxing into the esophagus.
Dr. Scott
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for hiatal hernia.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat smaller meals more often to reduce pressure on your diaphragm
  • Avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods that trigger reflux
  • Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches to prevent nighttime symptoms
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol to strengthen muscle tone

2. Medications

  • Antacids for quick, over-the-counter relief
  • H2 blockers to lower stomach acid production
  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to heal inflamed esophageal tissue

3. Minimally Invasive or Surgical Procedures

  • Laparoscopic fundoplication to reposition the stomach and tighten the diaphragm opening
  • Endoscopic techniques for reflux control in selected cases
  • Access to clinical trials exploring novel, less-invasive hernia therapies
Scott Liu

About the Expert

Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for a hiatal hernia?

The code is K44.9 - for a diaphragmatic hernia without blockage or tissue damage.

How long is the recovery after surgery?

Most people feel better in 1-2 weeks. Full recovery takes 4-6 weeks.

What is life like after surgery?

You'll start with a soft-food diet for a few weeks. Most patients return to normal meals and feel less heartburn.

Are there any risks?

Yes. Risks may include bleeding, infection, or gas-bloat syndrome. Dr. Scott will explain everything clearly before the procedure.

Is a hiatal hernia permanent?

It can be managed with diet, medicine, or surgery. Many people feel much better with the right care.

Can children get hiatal hernias?

Yes, but it's more common in adults over 50. Children with hernias need special care.

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