Looking for Guidance on Hypermobility and Hiatal Hernia Surgery
Hello! I’m a 25-year-old female residing in the UK. I hope this is the right place to discuss my situation, but if there's a more suitable forum, please feel free to direct me! I received a diagnosis of hypermobility prior to the pandemic. Additionally, I have been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia accompanied by hiatal laxity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For years, I've been trying to resolve my hernia in hopes of alleviating the serious GERD symptoms I experience. After trying multiple medications, I’m currently on famotidine, which provides minimal relief. I've been under the care of a gastroenterology specialist, who recommended further testing before we proceed with any surgical options. Last November, he advised that I undergo both an endoscopy and a pH test. I had the endoscopy in January but am still on the waiting list for the pH test through the NHS. The endoscopy report revealed that I have a small hernia, which I was already aware of, and it also noted a "degree of hiatal failure." I have an upcoming appointment with the specialist this Monday, but I’m uncertain what the phrase "degree of hiatal failure" signifies and whether it indicates a positive or negative situation. My specialist is not aware of my hypermobility condition because I’ve relocated, and many of my medical records have not been transferred for various reasons. I had to personally provide him with documentation from my initial diagnosis. Additionally, I suspect my hypermobility may be related to hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), as I experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), bruise easily, have highly elastic skin (which leads to frequent ingrown hairs), encounter significant digestive issues, and my joints often make clicking sounds (some quite pronounced!). I also attach an ADHD diagnosis alongside my hernia and hiatal laxity concerns. My primary inquiry is whether undergoing surgery to correct my GERD issues is complicated by my hypermobility. Could this factor influence the effectiveness of the procedure? I’ll be sure to bring up my hypermobility with the specialist on Monday; however, I am concerned about its potential repercussions since I have been attempting to resolve my GERD for four years now. Any insights or advice on this matter would be greatly appreciated. As I don’t have family or friends who share similar experiences, your guidance means a lot! Thank you!
Answers (1)
3/22/2025, 9:01:12 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your situation; it sounds like you're navigating some complex health challenges. Here are the main points regarding your concerns about hypermobility and hiatal hernia surgery:
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Understanding Hiatal Failure: The term "degree of hiatal failure" often refers to how well the diaphragm and surrounding tissues are functioning to support the stomach. This can impact the severity of GERD symptoms and the need for surgical intervention.
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Hypermobility Considerations: Hypermobility itself may affect surgical outcomes because the body's connective tissues, including those involved in the healing process, may differ in strength or elasticity. This could potentially complicate recovery and effectiveness.
Explanation:
Hiatal hernia surgery aims to alleviate GERD symptoms by restoring normal anatomy. However, because hypermobility can lead to variations in tissue quality and recovery, it’s essential for your specialist to be aware of this condition when planning your treatment. This ensures they can anticipate how your body might respond.
Next Steps:
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Discuss Your Concerns at the Appointment: It’s crucial to explain your hypermobility diagnosis in detail to your gastroenterology specialist. Provide them with any past documentation and your symptoms related to hypermobility, which may help tailor your treatment plan.
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Inquire About Surgical Options: Ask about how your hypermobility may affect the type of surgery that is recommended, the potential risks, and the expected outcomes.
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Follow-Up on Testing: Keep a close eye on your pH test scheduling and ask about timelines, as it’s critical to have that data for a complete assessment.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Document any changes, new symptoms, or specific reactions to medications, as this information can be helpful for your doctor.
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Consider a Multidisciplinary Approach: Given your complex medical history, it may benefit you to work with both a gastroenterologist and a rheumatologist or geneticist familiar with hypermobility disorders to create a comprehensive treatment strategy.
Your experience is unique, and it's understandable to feel uncertain. You're taking important steps by seeking clarification about your health, and I encourage you to continue advocating for yourself. Please reach out if you need further information or support!
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