Imagine you have heartburn. For years you’ve managed with antacids, but one day you’re struggling to swallow steak without vomiting. Your gastroenterologist finds a large hiatal hernia, an enlarged opening of the diaphragm trapping part of your stomach. She sends you to a surgeon, who says a surgical procedure will correct the problem but could permanently alter your digestion.
This is your first time hearing that surgery might help you, and you’re just not sure: Should you follow the surgeon’s advice?
