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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Why wouldn't a hiatal hernia repair be beneficial to me who has problems with bad chest pains and my cardiologist has ruled out my heart

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Oxford, MS

My Gastroenterologist say with me having jack hammer syndrome, Gerd, acid reflux, Gastroparesis, and sluggish bowe i am not a good candidate for the procedure along with the Lupus. So meds and sufferings the rest if my life is my recourse??? 😭😭😭😭

September 1
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Reactions
A MyLupusTeam Member

I agree when it comes to your health get a second or even a 3rd opinion and weigh out your options.

September 4
MyLupusTeam

That sounds absolutely exhausting and frustrating — dealing with chest pain while juggling so many overlapping issues is a lot. Those crying emojis are completely warranted. 💙

The reason surgery may not be recommended comes down to how lupus and these conditions interact. Lupus can cause inflammation throughout the digestive Show Full Answer

That sounds absolutely exhausting and frustrating — dealing with chest pain while juggling so many overlapping issues is a lot. Those crying emojis are completely warranted. 💙

The reason surgery may not be recommended comes down to how lupus and these conditions interact. Lupus can cause inflammation throughout the digestive system, weaken muscles involved in swallowing, and suppress the immune system — all of which make surgical recovery riskier and less predictable.

When the gut is already struggling with multiple issues at once, surgery can sometimes make things worse rather than better. The good news is that medication and lifestyle adjustments aren't just "suffering through it" — they can genuinely reduce symptoms over time. Some strategies that have helped other MyLupusTeam members include:

- Eating smaller meals more frequently
- Staying upright for a while after eating
- Sleeping with your head elevated
- Avoiding known trigger foods
- Keeping a symptom journal to identify patterns

It's also worth asking your gastroenterologist specifically about whether a speech-language pathologist could help with swallowing exercises, and whether any medication adjustments might offer more relief.

You deserve more than just managing — keep advocating for better options with your care team. 💪

September 1
A MyLupusTeam Member

Get a second opinion. The first guy I saw from MUSC, didn't think my teeth eroding from stomach acid, me possibly choking on reflux at night, or the hiatal pain was too concerning. Then the surgeon at Lex Med who had taken my gallbladder out when three surgeons refused to, was utterly appalled. He said many doctors write off women, especially when they are past child bearing age. I had the hernia fixed and had a partial wrap of my esophagus with my stomach to help control the GERD. My esophagus was too rigid for a full wrap. A swallow study showed what precautions he needed to take. I would find the best rated doctor for gallbladder and esophagus surgery in your area and go see them.

September 2 (edited)

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