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Hiatal hernia surgery side effects

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Posted 8/21/2013 10:09 PM (GMT 0)
I am hoping for answers to complications from hiatal hernia surgery I had the end of May. When I went to post op visit with doctor I mentioned to doctor my left shoulder hurt, thought maybe it was the way arm was positioned during surgery doc said no and everything went well. Barium swallow test done post op looked good. In the past couple months I have figured out the shoulder pain is in connection to chest pain I get when eating. Several times lately I vomit during or after a meal to relieve pressure. I also have a gurgling noise when I swallow liquids, quite embarrassing when you are next to someone. Has anyone else had any of these problems? Any suggestions ? I had the surgery because of shortness of breath and heartburn so bad now I am beginning to wonder if it was worth it.

Post Edited (mamasue) : 8/21/2013 6:18:13 PM (GMT-6)

Posted 8/22/2013 3:51 AM (GMT 0)
mamasue

Welcome to Healing Well.

The issues you are having are very common. You are still early in the recovery period for this surgery. It is worth it, but you have to be patient and let your body heal. This takes a good 6 months for 80% of the healing.
The shoulder pain is from irritation at the wrap and diaphragm. I found that taking a plain ole ant acid helped with this. Nothing else touched it. It does go away, but how long that takes is different from person to person.
Basically with an irritated and probably swollen wrap the wrap doesn't work as well as it will when everything is healed and happy. This causes some reflux and more likely food and meds sitting at the wrap. This ferments and feels like reflux. Drinking something warm, like tea, can help relax things and wash what's sitting there on through.
Also be sure to eat small meals frequently and chew everything to a liquid if possible.

Take care,
Bill
Posted 8/23/2013 12:26 AM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the help. I have stopped eating the stuff that I noticed bothers be,pasta,pork,bagels,rice. I do eat small meals and take small bites.I am wondering of I should consult surgeon.
Posted 8/23/2013 1:25 PM (GMT 0)
mamasue

If it makes you feel more confident I would contact your surgeon. That said, what you are experiencing is very common. the foods you listed can be quite challenging at your stage in the recovery. I would hold off until about late 3 months at least before trying bagels, rice, and pork. some pastas are okay, but have to be a little under cooked or it can pile up at the wrap. same for soft bead, solid meat, and rice.

Take car,
Bill
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