What causes difficulty in breathing after having a hiatal hernia surgery?
Patient: I had surgery to correct a hiatal hernia and acid reflux a year ago this past Nov. and ever since, I have difficulty breathing just about every other day. Prior to surgery, it was more frequent. I sleep on a wedge pillow, plus another standard pillow to prevent acid coming up, and I eat by 5:30 to give adequate time for food to digest (this has helped tremendously to the point where I don t need medication regularly, but wonder why it happens every other day and is there anything else I can do? And is it happening because acid comes up to my airway and creates swelling? PS--my pulmonologist prescribed inhalers, but it brought no relief whatsoever. Doctor: Hi, Thanks for your question. I can understand your pain and discomfort. your problem should be evaluated by your doctor to make sure that its not a cpmplication from the surgery you have undergone. Ask your doctor as it could be a gas bloat.A common side effect of the surgery is gas bloat. Air becomes trapped in the stomach, causing pain and discomfort and difficulty in breathing.  Chew your food well. Eat small meals. Avoid carbonation (soda) and drinking from a straw. All of these will increase the air in your stomach.I hope I was able to address your query. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to write to me. Wishing you all the best. Thanks