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Hiatal Hernia Treatment in Katy, TX

Dr. Bharat Pothuri Medically Reviewed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG  |  Updated 03-17-2026

To diagnose and treat hiatal hernia with personal and advanced methods of relief, GastroDoxs in Katy is the shoulder to lean on since it cares about your relief, and we will provide it in the quickest and most efficient way possible and right within your neighborhood.

Schedule Appointment 832-632-4070
Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG

Dr. Bharat Pothuri

MD, FACG

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4.7  ·  1,900+ Reviews

Overview Symptoms Treatment GastroDoxs Care Frequently Asked Questions

Condition Overview

To diagnose and treat hiatal hernia with personal and advanced methods of relief, GastroDoxs in Katy is the shoulder to lean on since it cares about your relief, and we will provide it in the quickest and most efficient way possible and right within your neighborhood.

Symptoms

What is a Hiatal Hernia?

A hiatal hernia occurs when the portion of your stomach is pushed up into the chest along an aperture in the diaphragm. It has two common types, the most common type is the sliding type of hernia and the second is the paraesophageal type (less common but may be dangerous). It is possible that some of the small herniae (such as a 2 cm hiatal hernia) will not present with any symptoms whereas bigger ones can cause reflux and discomfort.

Common Symptoms

Even a small hiatal hernia can trigger problems. You may experience:

  • Heartburn or acid reflux
  • Chest pain or pressure
  • Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Shortness of breath, especially if the hernia presses on your lungs
  • Regurgitation of food or liquids

Causes

A hiatal hernia may develop for several reasons:

  • Age-related weakening of the diaphragm muscles
  • Lifting heavy objects or straining (e.g., during bowel movements)
  • Chronic coughing or sneezing
  • Obesity or extra pressure on the abdomen
  • Injury to the diaphragm or family history of hernias

Treatment Options

Treatment Options for Hiatal Hernia in Katy

Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical care:

  • Diet modifications: To decrease reflux, avoid foods that are spicy, fried, or acidic.
  • Small meals: Take small portions slowly to reduce abdominal pressure.
  • Weight loss: Losing excess weight can relieve pressure on the diaphragm.
  • Raise your sleeping posture: Use multiple pillows to elevate your head at night to prevent reflux.
  • Drugs: Take antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to manage stomach acid.
  • Laparoscopic surgery: A larger or symptomatic hernia can be repaired using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, such as Nissen fundoplication.
  • Post-operative diet: During recovery, follow a diet of soft foods, small meals, and maintain long-term healthy eating habits.

What Else Should You Know?

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

In the case of a patient first approach, we focus on hiatal hernia diagnosis and treatment at GastroDoxs in Katy. The endoscopy and imaging utilized by our board-certified gastroenterologists identify the source of your condition and then our experts assess your lifestyle and objectives to formulate a treatment plan be it medical management or minimally-invasive surgery.

Ready to get back to life without heartburn, chest pain or swallowing troubles? Call GastroDoxs at 832-632-4070 or book your appointment online today to see a hiatal hernia specialist in Katy.

GastroDoxs Experience

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 14K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Schedule Appointment 832-632-4070

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How would I identify a hiatal hernia back home?

Watch out for regular heartburn, chest pain or pressure, and a sense of fullness following meals. When these happen frequently, consider consulting a doctor.

Will you be able to show me a hiatal hernia picture?

Yes. Detailed pictures of the stomach pushing the diaphragm can be obtained via endoscopy or barium swallow X-ray, administered by your doctor.

Is it possible that a hiatal hernia would produce shortness of breath?

Yes. When the hernia is large, it may push on the lungs or diaphragm, resulting in shortness of breath, particularly during exertion or when lying down.

Which foods must I stop taking when I have a hiatal hernia?

Avoid spicy, fried, fatty, or acidic foods, as well as chocolate, caffeine, and mint, as these can trigger reflux and worsen symptoms.

Is a 2 cm hiatal hernia serious?

Even a small hernia of 2 cm can cause acid reflux, chest pressure, or pain. Treatment is based on symptoms, not hernia size.

What do you recommend about what to eat after surgery on hiatal hernia?

Eat small, soft foods such as lean proteins (chicken, fish), cooked vegetables, low-acid fruits, and highly digestible foods while healing.

What is the usual post-hiatal surgery complications?

Patients may experience gas, bloating, or swallowing difficulties. These usually improve within a few weeks to months with dietary changes and physician guidance.

What is the procedure of hiatal hernia surgery?

Most repairs are done laparoscopically using small incisions. One technique is Nissen fundoplication, where a section of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to prevent reflux.

What do I do when I have both GERD and hiatal hernia?

Follow diet modifications and weight loss, take medications such as antacids and acid blockers, and consult your physician about possible surgery to manage symptoms.

How can I find a hiatal hernia expert around Katy?

GastroDoxs in Katy offers appointments with experienced gastroenterologists. Call or book online to begin your care plan.

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