Does a GP consultation treat hiatus hernia?

A GP will ask about heartburn, acid coming up into the throat, chest or upper-abdominal discomfort, swallowing difficulty and patterns after meals. They may review medicines and suggest changes that reduce reflux. Treatment can include acid-reducing medicine when suitable. If symptoms do not settle, the diagnosis is uncertain or swallowing is affected, the GP may arrange tests or refer you to a specialist. A hiatus hernia does not always cause symptoms, so care is guided by what you experience.

Keep a note of meals, symptoms and medicines before your appointment. Smaller meals, avoiding lying down soon after eating, and raising the head of the bed may reduce night-time reflux for some people. Ask before using non-prescription acid remedies regularly, particularly if you take other medicines or have kidney problems. Take prescribed treatment as directed and return if symptoms continue.

Seek urgent assessment for vomiting blood, black stools, sudden severe chest or abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting or new difficulty swallowing. Get emergency help for severe breathing trouble or collapse. These symptoms can have causes other than reflux and require immediate evaluation.

Ask whether your symptoms fit reflux, how long to try treatment, whether any medicine could worsen symptoms, and what change would warrant testing or referral.