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What is a Hiatal Hernia? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

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Hiatal hernia occurs when a part of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through the diaphragm, the muscle separating the abdominal cavity from the chest. Sometimes the entire Stomach can migrate into the chest cavity causing severe complications.

How Does a Hiatal Hernia Cause Acid Reflux (GERD)?

Hiatal hernia’s cause Acid reflux (GERD) by disrupting the normal valve mechanisms in the lower part of the Esophagus, the tube that brings food from the mouth to the Stomach. This constant acid exposure to the Esophagus can lead to inflammation or ulceration of the Esophagus. In some cases, it can lead to cancer of the Esophagus.

Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

When the hiatal hernia results in disruption of the one-way valve in the Esophagus just above where it meets the stomach, patients have acid reflux symptoms with heart burn and chest pain. In some patients with a very large amount of the stomach in the chest, the stomach can twist on itself and lead to serious complications such as gangrene of the stomach.Hiatal hernia (hiatus) 3D illustration

In patients with large hiatal hernia, the presence of the stomach in the chest can interfere with breathing and cause shortness of breath, especially after eating or during activity.

Some patients with severe reflux have a large amount of fluid go backwards into the Esophagus from the Stomach causing them to vomit. When the fluid goes back into the back of the mouth when asleep, it can wake them up with choking spells.

Treatment Options for Hiatal Hernia

Patients with severe Acid reflux have several minimally invasive surgical methods to correct this and improve their quality of life. Most patients would not need to take Heart burn pills after successful surgery. These surgical procedures require expertise and I have performed these procedures with high degree of success over the last 30 years. Seek consultation to see if you are a candidate for surgery to restore your quality of life.

Schedule a Hiatal Hernia Consultation in Southfield, MI

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a hiatal hernia or have questions about treatment options, contact Dr. Kolachalam at (248) 662-4272 to schedule a consultation.

How to Prepare for Gallbladder Surgery

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Facing gallbladder surgery can feel overwhelming, but with proper preparation, you can approach the procedure with confidence and ensure a smooth recovery. Preparing for gallbladder surgery is like preparing for any major surgery. Your surgeon needs to be aware of all your medical problems, as they may influence the success of your Surgical procedure. Whether your surgery is scheduled to address gallstones, inflammation, or other gallbladder-related issues, being informed and organized can make all the difference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for gallbladder surgery.

Continue reading “How to Prepare for Gallbladder Surgery” →

The Link Between Hiatal Hernia and Acid Reflux (GERD)

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In patients without a hiatal hernia, the stomach is in the abdominal cavity. However, in patients with hiatal hernia, a part of the stomach goes through the diaphragm, the muscle separating the abdominal cavity from the chest cavity. Although you can have a hiatal hernia without having GERD, often, the hiatal hernia is linked to Acid reflux (GERD) through several mechanisms. Continue reading “The Link Between Hiatal Hernia and Acid Reflux (GERD)” →

Understanding Different Types of Hernias

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Hernias are a common medical condition affecting people of all ages. They happen when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the muscle or connective tissue that surrounds it. While hernias can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, they are treatable, especially when recognized early.

This guide will help you understand the different types of hernias, their causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options, empowering you to take proactive steps toward better health.

Continue reading “Understanding Different Types of Hernias” →

Hernia Symptoms in Man and Women

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Most physicians believe you have a greater chance of getting a hernia as you get older. This is true for both men and women. Hernias are weak places in muscle walls that allow internal organs to protrude. They don’t heal on their own and must be surgically repaired. However, becoming aware you have one can differ between the sexes. Do hernia symptoms differ between men and women?

Common Hernia Symptoms in Women

Although women have fewer hernias, they still must be aware of symptoms. She may feel persistent intense pain, pelvic discomfort, sporadic sharp and piercing pain. There can be an achyWoman holding her belly in pain. feeling, a burning sensation, dullness, pinching, sharpness or shooting pain.

Females have less hernias than men. Their symptoms are different as well. A female hernia is smaller and deeper and does not have a lump. Female hernia symptoms many times mimic gynecological issues, and because of this, they are commonly misdiagnosed for a cyst, endometriosis, or fibroid tumors. It is essential that women describe their symptoms very specifically.

A woman is less likely to have a groin hernia, however they are susceptible to abdominal hernias.

Types of Female Hernias

Femoral Hernia

  • More common in women due to wider pelvis
  • Commonly appear after childbirth, after lifting heavy objects, or if a women is obese
  • Can have a small bulge in the inner or upper thigh area
  • Can become incarcerated or strangulated which is a medical emergency

Umbilical Hernia

  • Common when a woman is pregnant, especially when carrying multiple babies
  • Located at the belly button area or upper abdomen when a bowel or fatty tissue pushes through

Incisional/Ventral Hernia

  • Occurs through a previous incision in the abdominal wall
  • Common in those who had a caesarian section

Hiatal Hernia

  • Affects the chest area and digestive system
  • Upper part of the stomach pushes into the chest through an opening in diaphragm
  • More common in overweight women

Inguinal Hernia

  • Less common in women
  • Pain increases with exercise, laughing, coughing, or straining to move bowels

If a hernia becomes strangulated you will see red or purple tissue, a persistent bulge even when lying down. The pain will continue to get worse, there will be nausea, bloating, fever, rapid heart beat, and problems moving bowels. This is true for both men and women.

Common Hernia Symptoms in Men

Hernia symptoms in men are much more noticeable and quite different from female symptoms.

Men will have the following hernia symptoms:

  • A bulge a man can see and feel
  • A tugging sensation in the scrotum and around the testicles
  • A feeling of pressure
  • Aching pain in the area
  • Pain that gets worse with any activities requiring pressure to the area like heavy lifting, pushing or straining
  • Men also explain a hernia feels like a popping sensation internally

If a man experiences strain in the abdominal wall like heavy lifting, gaining weight in the abdomen, chronic coughing, or a surgical procedure on the abdomen, this can bring on a hernia.

Types of Male Hernias

Men have most of the same types of hernias as women as explained above

They also can have:

  • Obturator hernia, which occurs when part of the intestine passes through a gap between the bones of the front of the pelvis.
  • Epigastric hernia, when fat or intestine pass through the abdominal wall between the navel and breastbone.

Both men and women should be aware of the symptoms of a hernia and see a hernia specialist like Kolachalam Surgery in Novi, MI as soon as possible for a repair.

Contact Kolachalam Surgery at (248) 662-4272 if you are experiencing any symptoms of a hernia.

Activities To Avoid After Hernia Repair

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Whenever someone is contemplating a surgical procedure, one of the first questions they ask about is post-surgical restrictions. They want to know how soon they can get back to their normal life and activities. The answers to these questions may determine when and if they have surgery. When it comes to hernia surgery, what are the activities to avoid after hernia repair?

Continue reading “Activities To Avoid After Hernia Repair” →

IssueWire Press Release

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IssueWire is a Press Release Distribution site that helps share meaningful news. On February 6, 2020, IssueWire released a press release for my practice to discuss more in-depth my credentials in the surgical field and my impact on the eastern Detroit area.

To learn more about me, my practice and my accolades, please read my press release today by clicking here!

Schedule an Appointment Today in Novi, MI

 To speak with Dr. Kolachalam, call our office today at (248) 662-4272, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Schedule an Appointment

Dr. Kolachalam Reaches 500 Robotics Cases

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Dr. Ram Kolachalam has recently completed his 500th robotics case and has been recognized by Da Vinci as of November, 2018. Dr. Kolachalam has proven to be a top choice for robotic surgery in the Detroit area for some time and will continue to provide quality care for his patients.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kolachalam today.

Schedule an Appointment Today in Novi, MI

 To speak with Dr. Kolachalam, call our office today at (248) 662-4272, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Schedule an Appointment

SURGICAL CONSULTATION

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Every surgeon has a different philosophy on patient consultation and the management of  medical conditions.  It is important to assess your desired outcome and ensure that the surgeon’s approach is aligned with your expectations.  A major advantage of elective surgery is that it can be a planned approach to resolving your condition.

When you are approaching elective surgery, it’s important to:

1)      Research the basics of your condition

2)      Research your surgeon and the hospital

When considering the advantages and disadvantages of different surgical approaches, try to  articulate your expectations for the outcome; it’s usually the case that no one approach will satisfy every expectation. What are your priorities?

I would recommend starting your research by looking at the surgeon’s website, which gives you a good idea about their training and background.  For example, on my page, you can read about my practice, my research, and reviews from my patients.

Your next step should be to get familiar with your condition, keeping in mind that not everything you read online is accurate. The source of the information is very important.  Surgical societies, such as the American College of Surgeons (ACS) and the Society of American  Gastrointestinal  and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) can be good resources for accurate information about most general surgical procedures.  Major medical centers also have their own websites, and while their information can be helpful, some of the content is sponsored (and therefore not as objective) since their focus is not just on education, but also the promotion of their centers.

When you go to your surgical consultation,  it is important to have a list of questions prepared to discuss with your physician.  In my opinion, if your questions are not resolved or the surgeon isn’t happy to discuss your concerns, that is a red flag.  Most surgeons are familiar with various surgical options, and should work to align their approach with your expectations.  If the surgeon has only one method for approaching your problem, that could mean he has a “one size fits all” approach, and while that might match your desired outcome, you should know the advantages of the other methods before committing to one.  Often, the first surgical procedure is the most important, and finding a surgeon who gives you undivided attention and is responsive to your feedback is crucial.

In a nutshell, my advice is as follows: focus on knowing yourself and knowing your surgeon, and expect the procedure to be tailored to your needs.

Schedule an Appointment Today in Novi, MI

 To speak with Dr. Kolachalam, call our office today at (248) 662-4272, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Schedule an Appointment

 

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