When someone has a disease or disorder of some kind, most of them have developed coping skills over time. If you have been diagnosed with a digestive disorder, such as GERD or a hiatal hernia, you have probably found ways to live well with these conditions. Perhaps it is knowing what to eat, and when. It may have been learning what habits were aggravating your symptoms, and making the needed changes to ease your symptoms.
If you were diagnosed with a digestive disorder some time ago, you will have the experience that those who are newly diagnosed don't have. By sharing your stories, you can let others know how you have coped.
Living with GERD
For the majority of people who have GERD heartburn is the most common symptom. What we do in our daily lives will often determine whether we suffer from heartburn or not. Perhaps you have learned how to avoid heartburn, or what foods cause heartburn. There are several areas below where you can share your stories and tips. You can also see what others have to say.
What symptoms led you to your GERD diagnosis?
Symptoms of GERD can vary from person to person and can include hoarseness in the morning, difficulty swallowing, and a persistent dry cough. When did you first suspect you were suffering from GERD? What symptoms prompted you to go to your doctor about it? Share your experiences with others. Sharing your symptoms could prompt someone else with similar symptoms to see a doctor when they might not otherwise.
How Did You Decide What GERD Treatment to Pursue?br> Some people are willing to make extreme lifestyle modifications in order to get relief, while others would rather take a pill daily than give up their favorite foods. Some people are hesitant to take any medication, and would rather have some discomfort than be on medication every day. Others will take the cost of treatment into consideration. How did you decide on what sort of treatment you were going to pursue?
How Do You Deal With Nighttime Heartburn?
Staying up all night because of heartburn isn't a good idea. It can also make for a miserable day the next day. Share your tips on getting through the night -- free of heartburn.
How Do You Eat Out Without Heartburn?
Are you able to eat out without heartburn? Perhaps you have learned what to ask for, or what to avoid. You can your tips here, or get tips and ideas from others.
How Did You Handle Heartburn During Your Pregnancy?
Many women will experience heartburn during their pregnancy. For some women, during pregnancy is the only time they have heartburn. Some women take medication recommended by their doctor. If heartburn was an issue for you during your 9 months, what other things did you do to avoid heartburn while pregnant?
Preparing for Fundoplication Surgery
Some people have decided that fundoplication surgery is their best option for the treatment of their GERD. If you have had fundoplication surgery, what has been your experience? Knowing what you know now after your fundoplication surgery, what is the one thing that those about to have this surgery should do beforehand to make life easier later? You can also share your fundoplication surgery experience and tell why you had the surgery, and what the surgery was like
Living with a Hiatal Hernia
Living with a hiatal hernia can be challenging at times. It may begin with the diagnosis. Just the thought of having a hiatal hernia can be daunting. Over time, however, you may have found ways to adjust and have been able to feel more comfortable with the condition. Maybe as you adjusted to having a hernia, you learned which changes in your life and diet brought you the most comfort. You can share your stories and tips, and see what others have to say.
What Symptoms Led You to a Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis?
Many people never experience symptoms before they find out they have a hiatal hernia. Other people learn they have a hiatal hernia after they visit their doctor with chronic heartburn. When did you first suspect you may have a hiatal hernia? Were there symptoms that prompted you to go to your doctor? Let others know your experience. Sharing your symptoms could prompt someone else with similar symptoms to see a doctor.
What Do You Think Family and Friends Should Know About Hiatal Hernias?
People who have not had been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia may not understand what it is like living with one. You can share what you think others should know about the condition and how you go about explaining it to your family and friends.
