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Jean-Claude Mas- Maker of PIP Breast Implants Arrested In France

An officer stood guard outside the home of Jean-Claude Mas while police searched the premises with Mas still inside. Apparently, French law requires that a policeman remain outside of any building being searched. Upon concluding the investigation the French implant inventor was arrested and taken into custody.

The 72 year old founder of PIP (Poly Implant Prothese) had been detained at his place of residency located in Six-Fours-les-Plages, according to police sources. France had previously banned PIP implants which were created using low-grade industrial silicone. This was prompted as a result of the fear that the implants could burst or leak, causing serious illness or even death to victims.

There have been as many as 400,000 women given these particular implants in over 65 different countries over the years. Mas’ attorney told the AFP news station that his client is not feeling well and is awaiting the arrival of his doctor.

It seems investigators have been looking into Mas since last year when he told police during an interview that the PIP factory workers had been under strict orders to hide the silicone should inspectors show up. One attorney who has been representing a woman who had been given the implants announced he was pleased that Mas had been arrested but only wished it had happened much sooner.

Mas has been placed in what is called “preventative detention.” In the hours to come it will become more evident as to what will happen, according to the interrogation and decision made by the magistrate. A spokesperson stated they are hopeful Mas will go under formal investigation to be certain he does not leave France until the investigation has been concluded.

Apparently, last year 72 year old Mas had told police that he had willingly deceived the European safety inspectors for a period of more than 13 years. However, he has continuously insisted that the implants pose absolutely no threat or harm to individuals and made a verbal attack on French authorities for being so bold as to offer payment for those wanting the implants removed. He claimed the attack was made due to the unnecessary risk of surgery the removal would put on women.

The risk of these implants has not been shown to heighten the occurrence of breast cancer but should one rupture, toxicity could occur. In one case recently a rare type of cancer, anaplastic large cell lymphoma was reported. Of course more studies will have to be done before that can be definitively blamed on the implants.

While many European countries are advising all women who have had the implants inserted have them removed, other countries are only suggesting this if there is a specific reason. The UK for example is only recommending that women who are experience pain, soreness or tenderness have them removed; siting the risk of a surgical procedure outweighs the risk of perfectly good and intact implants.

The company officially closed back in march 2010 but investigators believe women have been having them implanted since. The allegation is that Mas did not cease operations as ordered at the time the ruling to do so was made.

Studies Involving A Deadlier Strain Of Bird Flu Halted for Reassessment

Research on a much more deadly strain of the bird flu was forced to come to a halt as a group of scientists who wanted to try and study the virus in depth were pressured to stop. This came after major controversial objection to the research. It seems some people in the medical community feared contamination and spread could result from such a study.

The scientists who are in question took a strain of the H5N1 Bird Flu and altered it in order to create an even deadlier form of the virus. This was apparently done in an effort come to some sort of definitive conclusion, and of course to determine something concise on the development and evolution of pandemics, according to spokespeople. The Bird Flu virus has already claimed the lives of 300 people in 600 cases which were reported since the virus was found in 1997.

The group of scientists has stated that they will wait two months and halt their studies in order to enable the global scientific community to vent and state the problems they have with the research. These scientists are making an unusual concession by agreeing to stop their studies as this is not something that is commonly seen. Suspensions on any type of scientific studies that occur voluntarily are almost unheard of. This shows a very good act of faith on the part of these researchers. Perhaps they recognize the value of reassessing their decision to alter the strain.

There are several key points of the study which are being called dangerous. For one a deadlier strain of the virus, should it somehow get released into the population could result in a world-wide pandemic that could lead to millions of deaths. In addition, some accusations have been set forth that scientists performing these types of studies could eventually use this information to actually assist future pandemics in spreading. While that may be unlikely it is certainly a valid concern.

The research has been receiving its funding from the National Institutes of Health and is being performed in collaboration with Erasmus MC located in the Netherlands, as well as with the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In a letter published by the group of scientists participating in the study, they stated something to effect of understanding and recognizing that the entire scientific community does have the right to go over the study and the possible benefits and risks. In addition, the group seems to be willing to make sure that the whole scientific community is on the same page where safety is concerned.

It is believed we will learn more about this situation once the period of 60 says has passed. At this time the scientists will either resume the research or put an end to the entire study, the latter being less likely. The good news is that a time period of rest and thought will most certainly help everyone act in a much more responsible way on this matter, taking as many precautions as needed.

Headphones Could Lead to Death for Pedestrians

New studies suggest that it may be prudent for people who walk around outside, or drive while wearing headphones to stop this dangerous practice. This comes as a result of the number of accidents occurring involving pedestrians wearing headphones. In fact, the study shows that the number of accidents has actually tripled in the past few years.

Many different sources were combed by researcher to come up with the statistics of US accidents involving people wearing headphones. These studies were looked at through a period of 7 years beginning in 2004-2011. The areas looked at were the US Consumer Safety Product Commission, the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, Google News archives and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. However, the cases in which drivers or pedestrians were making use of mobile phones were not included in the study.

Over the past several years cases have soared, going from only 16 between the years of 2004 to 2005 to a whopping 47 between 2010 and 2011. The average age for the victims involved in these statistics was about 21 with nearly 68% being male. Most of the people, at least 67% of the people involved were reported to be below the age of 30. 55% of these were reported to have been hit by trains and about 70% of those wound up resulting in fatalities.

In about 74% of the reported situations, eyewitnesses or law enforcement officers stated that the victims were wearing headphones with the accidents occurred. 29% of the cases seemed to have involved horns blowing or sirens sounding just before the incident. The research indicates two very likely factors that may have contributed to some of these incidents. The first factor is distraction as a result of the sound coming through the headphones and the second is sensory deprivation. Electronic gadgets are being blamed more and more for what is known as intentional blindness because they seem to take focus on things which are important such as safety.

Many experts believe that being able to hear what is going on around you may be even more important than being able to see surroundings. However, this study is not conclusive at this time and much more studies will be conducted over the next several years. There are also other factors such as intoxication and so forth that could play a role in some of the accidents associated with this study.

Much more comprehensive studies will need to be performed in order to know for sure what the results of these preliminary findings are. However, there is no doubt that there is definitely some truth to the matter and that people should be extra cautious when being out in public wearing headphones. Some experts suggest using only one side and leaving the other ear open to hear things that are happening around you. Over the next decade or so there may be additional laws regarding headphone use in public for both pedestrians and drivers.

Marijuana Not Detrimental to Lung Health

It seems a few tokes on a joint from time to time may not only be harmless but may even contribute to improved lung function. Researchers have discovered that a multitude of facets involving the function of lungs actually became slightly better as younger individuals reported partaking in higher amounts of marijuana, at a minimum of 2000 joints in a lifetime.

It is true that watching someone smoke marijuana may be a bit disconcerting as the person smoking may cough profusely after inhaling the smoke. However, there does not seem to be any sort of long term effects as a result of smoking the herb. For years people have been questioning the longer term dangers of smoking marijuana in relation to lung damage. These newer studies suggest the theory that marijuana will contribute to lung disease or conditions may hold no water.

Some studies done earlier have had mixed or conflicting results. Some of them have suggested that marijuana smoking increased the rate of oxygen flow to the lungs while others have not seen that evidence. Some studies have shown hints that possible harm could be eminent. The new studies seem to lean toward the studies that show favor in smoking marijuana where the lungs are concerned.

Even though marijuana does contain many of the same toxins that are found in tobacco smoke, people have a tendency to inhale fewer marijuana cigarettes each day. In addition, the practice of inhaling marijuana differs greatly than the method of smoking cigarettes, possibly offering a bit of protection to the lungs. These findings do not necessarily negate that there are other possible longer term effects on health but overall the findings were very optimistic for medical marijuana patients and recreational pot smokers.

One substance abuse researcher from Yale stated that a lot more would have to be done in the form of studies on marijuana effects before the medical community could release a blanket statement. This person was not a part of the studies in any way. The opinion was based on the fact that the study only covered a couple of pulmonary functions.

In studies conducted in several major US cities over a course of 21 years involving over 5,000 people under the age of 25, doctors looked at the way marijuana as opposed to cigarettes affected them. The participants lungs were also tested to see the maximum rate that air flow could emerge from the lungs and how much oxygen their lungs could actually hold.

The study showed that the lungs did actually improve slightly with marijuana smoked and declined significantly with cigarettes. Marijuana activists have been saying these things for years. Perhaps this study will serve to reassure people that marijuana is not quite as bad as originally believed in terms of the effects of the smoke. We seem to be years away from a total opinion on marijuana use but we have come a long way in the past couple of decades.

Exercise Lowers Risk of Heart Attack, Owning a Vehicle Raises It

According to a recent study conducted by a prominent University in Sweden, exercise during leisure and while at work significantly reduces the chance of having a myocardial infarction (heart attack). The research indicated that any type of regular exercise is capable of improving cardiovascular health, and therefore reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks. This is not the first study prove the correlation between exercise and decreased cardiovascular disease, as a similar study showed that consistent exercise reduces the risk of heart attack by at least 14%.

The research included a total of more than 10,000 individuals, with data collected from more than 262 centers in 50+ countries on all continents. Aside from making exercise a hobby, researchers stated that simply having a more active occupation may lower your risk of a heart attack. Individuals that have an inactive occupation/lifestyle are encouraged to increase their daily amount of physical activity.

In an editorial review of the study, one of the doctors stated that staying in shape through regular exercise is one of the “easiest and cheapest ways” to avoid expensive medical bills later in life. A sedentary lifestyle not only puts you at risk for heart attacks and strokes, but also nearly every other type of degenerative disease. While the recent Swedish study did have some limitations, it has become a consensus in the scientific community that exercising regularly can only be beneficial.

If the body is not actively moving for at least a small portion of the day, organs simply cannot function optimally because blood flow is decreased throughout the body. Exercise promotes the strengthening of the heart, and subsequently the cleansing of the blood. As your blood is pumped throughout your bodily systems at an increased rate, it becomes easier for your liver and kidneys to filter impurities and produce essential enzymes and hormones.

Aside from combating chronic and acute disease, studies have shown that people who exercise at least three times per week have a higher quality of life and higher self-confidence. Even people that have physical disabilities can participate in some type of therapeutic and beneficial exercise. As always, it is important to consult with your physician before beginning any dietary or exercise regimen.

In addition to confirming the link between active living and good overall health, The study also showed that individuals that own a car and/or a television were more likely to have an acute myocardial infarction. This is not surprising, since owning these items would likely lead to a less active lifestyle overall. Of course, one could still own a vehicle and choose to ride a bike or walk to nearby destinations.

The general consensus seems to be that walking more often than driving to and from close destinations is a good way to get you activity in for the day. Because of the millions of people who suffer from obesity a number of studies are being conducted to help offset the condition and help people with their overall health.

Nicotine Replacement Products Not Helpful

A recent prospective cohort study showed that smokers do not stand any higher of a chance to quit smoking by using replacement products than if they stopped cold turkey. The chance of taking up smoking again did not seem to be any lower in those using cigarette replacement products than in people who had quit using nothing. Patches and gum seem to lend no assistance to smokers who were trying to quit. In addition, those who also received counseling by a health professional in conjunction with the stop smoking aids were also unaffected by the products.

The biggest problem for people who have quit smoking is eventual relapse and the study showed that the stop smoking aids offered no help in that area. People who relapsed after quitting smoking on their own and people who had used these products were about the same in number. This has raised major doubts in the medical community regarding the use of these cessation medications. These aids have been sold over the counter for almost two decades and have been suggested by the Department of Health and Human Services for just as long. This was based on data received in very short term studies performed at the onset of the product releases.

The decline in the amount of people who actually smoke has evened out after the past several years. However, the ratio of people who have quit smoking as compared to those who have never started has remained quite the same over the years that stop smoking aids have been available. The recent study involved phone interviews of about 6,800 adults over a two year period, conducted in Massachusetts.

During the first interviews that occurred from 2001 to 2002, over 750 people said they had quit smoking at some point during the past two years. However, these people were revisited in the years of 2003 through 2004 and some 60% had relapsed. Additionally, 68% of those people who had been interviewed again during the second round reported that they were now smokers again. Only 22% of these people had claimed the use of stop smoking aids for a period of 6 weeks or less; 7 and a half percent for longer than 6 weeks.

Upon further research the risk of relapse was significantly higher in those individuals who had smoked heavily and for a good number of years and had received no help from professionals. Heavy smokers were defined in the study by those who had reported smoking their first cigarette of the day within thirty minutes of rising and who smoked at least one pack a day.

The lowest risk of smoking relapse was found in people who had remained cigarette free for at least six months. In both of these groups, there seemed to be no data to suggest that smoking cessation medications had an impact on the numbers at all. The biggest number of people found who had quit smoking permanently had been in people who had smoked for less than 5 years of their lives.

Are GERD and Acid Reflux the Same?

While GERD and Acid Reflux disease are very similar, they are not the same thing. Some people do confuse the two terms but there are differences. Acid Reflux is basically the same thing as Heartburn. It occurs when there is back flow of stomach acid into the food pipe (esophagus). The esophagus is the pipe that connects the stomach and the throat. Commonly, acid reflux is referred to as gastroesophageal reflux in the medical profession. If you are experiencing acid reflux there is a chance you will taste a sour flavor as a result of regurgitated food and acid that travel up the esophagus.

This condition is very serious if left untreated and can eventually lead to GERD which is essentially a much more severe form of acid reflux. The most typical symptoms of GERD are heartburn which occurs more often than not. In addition you can develop a bad cough, vomiting, nausea, chest pain and a number of other undesirable conditions. GERD can become so serious that it can actually cause holes and ulcers to form in the stomach lining, esophagus and throat. In some cases GERD will require a surgical procedure in order to repair damage that has occurred inside the digestive system.

If acid reflux is treated properly and controlled efficiently, there is a very good chance that GERD may never become an issue. However, acid reflux that is left untreated and unattended can easily turn into a much worse problem. If your doctor has given you specific instructions on controlling your heartburn, the best advice is to follow his/her suggestions. Many people who have habits such as drinking or smoking are prime candidates for GERD. This is because these are two of the hardest habits to break and also, unfortunately, two of the most common contributing factors to acid reflux and GERD.

The most common times to experience the worst symptoms of GERD or Acid Reflux for that matter is at night when you are laying in your bed. This is why most doctors will suggest eating a good two or three hours before going to bed. This means going to bed on an empty stomach is the best way to avoid heartburn or other discomfort at night.

If you have questions about your acid reflux and want to know how to avoid it turning to GERD, speak with your doctor and follow his/her advice on treatment. In most cases treatment with medications to control acid will be quite effective.

Avoiding Heartburn Risk Factors

With any illness or disease there are usually a number of risk factors. For examples, exposing yourself to certain chemicals can cause Cancer. The same can be said of Heartburn; there are certain foods and eating habits that can lead to this uncomfortable and often painful condition. Knowing what Heartburn risk factors are will help you to avoid the nasty symptoms associated with it.

Let us start by saying that the term heartburn does not have a thing to do with your heart. It is simply called heartburn because it is a burning pain that travels up the esophagus from the stomach as a result of an excessive amount of stomach acid being produced. One of the most obvious risk factors for heartburn is of course the food you incorporate into your diet. People who eat spicy foods, fatty foods and foods that contain high levels of sugar are often afflicted by heartburn more often.

Being overweight can also cause heartburn as there is added pressure to your stomach and esophagus. Another heartburn risk factor is smoking cigarettes. There is not a lot of information as to why smoking would cause heartburn other than the fact that it irritates the lining of the stomach and lungs. Sometimes when people lie down too soon after eating heartburn can develop. The best rule of thumb is to wait for at least an hour or two after eating to lie down in bed.

It is important to note that heartburn mimics heart attack. The only time heartburn can occur is after food has been eaten. If a person experiences what feels like heartburn four hours before or after a meal a visit to the hospital may be a good idea. Unfortunately, a heart attack can feel exactly like heartburn and vice versa.

Above all advice when it comes to heartburn risk factors is to know your own body. If you know that something tends to cause heartburn, do not eat it. If there is something that you absolutely love and would like to eat once in a while then try using an acid reducer medication an hour before your meal.
Heartburn that happens a couple of times a month is probably not a big deal but if you begin noticing it occurring more than once a week then you may have a chronic problem and should seek medical attention. Heartburn can lead to GERD, ulcers and a number of other complications if it is not treated properly.

Prilosec Information

Even though Prilosec is now sold over-the-counter (OTC), it is always recommended that consumers know what it is and what it can do for them before self medicating. Simply because it is located on a pharmacy shelf next to antacids and other medications for indigestion doesn’t necessarily mean this would be the preferred treatment for what you are suffering from. The following information is not intended to diagnose or prescribe treatment, rather it is intended to provide a basic understanding of what Prilosec is, its intended uses and other facts which may prove to be helpful. Consumers should always seek a professional medical diagnosis before beginning any medications, especially for the first time.

What Is Prilosec?

The chemical (pharmaceutical) name for Prilosec is omeprazole which was first released in 1989 as a prescription drug for peptic ulcers, dyspepsia, laryngopharyngeal reflux, gastroesophageal reflux disease (commonly referred to as GERD) and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Today Prilosec is the most prescribed medication for GERD on a global level although it is still commonly prescribed for the previously mentioned conditions and other less common conditions.

Although the average layperson wouldn’t need to know, or even understand, Prilosec is in a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors. Basically, this means that it is used to treat illnesses or conditions which have been brought about by excess acid in the stomach. Sometimes it is prescribed for its ability to heal a condition called erosive esophagitis and there are times when physicians prescribe it in combination with antibiotics for ulcers which are the result of infections caused by H. pylori.

This medication is still available in prescription strength but is now available in the United States and some other countries around the world in an OTC strength formulation. Prilosec should not be taken for common conditions such as heartburn or acid indigestion because it does not promote immediate relief for those conditions.

How Is Prilosec Taken?

There are several ways in which Prilosec can be taken orally which of course include taking the capsule or pill whole as directed, generally one hour before breakfast. However, there are other ways in which Prilosec can be administered orally which would include the powder oral suspension formulation and methods of taking capsules for individuals who have trouble swallowing. In this case the person may wish to use a small bit of applesauce, usually a tablespoon, in a small bowl. Break open the time-release capsule and mix it well with the applesauce. Be sure not to chew when swallowing the mixture as the little granules are time released and never store the mixture. Take it immediately.

Delayed release tablets, prescription or OTC, are never to be chewed. Swallow them whole with a glass of water as per the directions on the OTC box or as prescribed by your physician. The powder form should be mixed with water, usually one teaspoonful for the 5mg dose and a tablespoon for the 10 mg dose. In either case, place the water in a small medicine cup and add the powder. Stir it well and wait a few minutes until the mixture thickens. Mix it again and immediately drink it down. Never let the mixture stand longer than 30 minutes. If for some reason you are unable to take your medication within that time, throw it out and start again. The powder can also be fed through a feeding tube if necessary following instructions by the doctor.

Potential Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

As with any medication, there is always the potential for side effects and/or adverse reactions. If you experience any of the following side effects, especially over a prolonged period, you should consult with your physician. Potential side effects include irregular bowel movements such as diarrhea or constipation, stomach pain, gas, nausea or vomiting and some people have experienced fevers and/or headaches.

Most often symptoms are not severe, but in some rare instance they could be. Of concern would be anyone presenting with a rash, hives or itching as this could be an allergic reaction. Any swelling of the face, neck, throat, lips, tongue or extremities (i.e. hands, ankles) should be immediately reported to your doctor. Hoarseness, dizziness, lightheadedness, irregular heartbeats, uncontrollable shaking, muscle spasms or seizures should also be immediately reported.

Special Precautions When Taking Prilosec

One thing to be aware of when taking Prilosec is that proton pump inhibitors seem to make people more susceptible to breaking bones such as hips, wrists and even their spine than those who do not take the compound. This is most common in those over the age of 50 and in patients who take high doses. There is also the risk of weakening the stomach lining if taken over extended periods of time.

Prilosec is not intended for immediate relief which is why it is contraindicated in relieving the symptoms of heartburn as it could take anywhere from one to four days before the effects are felt. Also, this medication is not meant to be taken over extended periods of time. OTC Prilosec should only be taken for 14 days at the longest and you should not follow the recommended OTC course more often than once in a four month period unless prescribed to do so by your physician.

Symptoms of Overdose and Emergency Procedures

Keep in mind that Prilosec is not a simple antacid and it is possible to overdose. While it may seem highly unlikely that someone would take more than prescribed or recommended on the OTC packaging, it has been known to happen. The pain and burning which accompanies conditions like GERD or peptic ulcers can be almost unbearable which is why people have been known to try to take extra medication. Even if there were no possibility of overdosing, it would be of no benefit anyway as it takes several days to be effective.

Symptoms of overdosing could include, but are not limited to, blurred vision, dizziness, irregular (rapid) heartbeats, vomiting or nausea, feeling flushed, dry mouth and headaches. If you suspect that you may have inadvertently taken too much of your Prilosec, you could call the National Poison Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 or your local emergency 911. If you find another person unconscious it is best to immediately call 911 since calling the national hotline will just unnecessarily delay medical intervention. They will only patch you through to your local fire/rescue which can delay responders by many minutes.

Important Information Regarding Prilosec

Before taking any medications whatsoever, including Prilosec, it is suggested that you discuss with your own doctor what medications or supplements you are currently taking. This includes OTC medications, vitamins, minerals and any prescription pharmaceuticals prescribed by other physicians. You would also want to discuss any allergies you may have to other medications and also if you have taken a course of Prilosec within the past few months. Remember, even a course of OTC Prilosec is only taken once in a four month period.

Your doctor may request a series of diagnostic tests before prescribing any medications so it is important to keep all appointments. Prilosec is most often prescribed for GERD which can have long-lasting ramifications if not treated timely. Never let another person take your prescription medication and also discuss any other illnesses you may have with your doctor. Pregnant women should always let their doctor know they are pregnant before taking any medications as well.

Consumer Reviews

When reading consumer reviews around the internet, it is apparent that many of them either didn’t read the directions or chose to take matters into their own hands anyway. One person commented that Prilosec was ineffective at treating heartburn so he/she had to take it repeatedly during the day. Either this was not Prilosec being taken or, as mentioned, the packaging wasn’t read. Prilosec is not for immediate relief of heartburn!

Some users found that it made them a bit drowsy but were happy with the relief it provided them while others found that it gave them mood swings or made them edgy. These, however are a rare few instances as most of the people who have taken Prilosec rate it at least 8 out of 10 for efficiency and would highly recommend it to others. OTC Prilosec can be a bit pricey at a local pharmacy, but it is possible to find deals online with a bit of searching. This is especially helpful if the online vendor provides free shipping.

Summary

If used as directed and for the conditions for which it was meant to be used, Prilosec is among the most effective medications of its type. It may be a bit costly, but no more so than other pharmaceuticals in this classification and there may be generic names under which the same medication is manufactured which could be less expensive. It is the number one pharmaceutical treatment of choice for GERD and as it has been on the market for more than two decades it can be classified as GRAS, generally recognized as safe. However, the bottom line is to always consult with your physician before taking any medications for the first time, even in non-prescription strengths.

Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

Over half of everyone will develop a hiatal hernia by the time they reach age sixty. Most of the time they are nothing to worry about and cause very few problems, however there are some cases in which a person will experience severe symptoms and have need for aggressive treatment. In addition, there are some symptoms that are associated with hiatal hernias which could actually be a sign of something much more serious. The most common symptoms of hiatal hernia are heartburn, acid regurgitation, problems swallowing, chest pain near the sternum, bloating after meals and shortness of breath.

What Is a Hiatal Hernia?

As mentioned earlier, most people who have hiatal hernias will not even know. The people who are aware that they have one usually find this information after visiting a doctor for something such as chronic heartburn. A hiatal hernia is actually an abnormality in the anatomical structure of the stomach, causing a portion to protrude all the way through the diaphragm and then up through the chest. In a normal situation the food tube (esophagus) comes down through the chest cavity, crosses through the diaphragm and then enters into the stomach through a small hole known as the esophageal hiatus. In the area directly under the diaphragm the stomach and esophagus join. In people who have a hiatal hernia the mouth of the esophageal hiatus is wider than usual. As a result a part of the stomach passes or slips straight through the hiatus and the up into the chest.

Hiatal Hernia Symptoms and Treatment

Most of the time hiatal hernia symptoms are treated individually. For example, heartburn is typically treated with antacids. Other hiatal hernia symptoms are also treated accordingly. There are some natural remedies for hiatal hernia symptoms and diet plays a major role as well. In some severe cases surgery is required but this is quite rare. Most doctors recommend for hiatal hernia symptoms and treatment diet that people avoid spicy foods and eating large meals. An individual with a hiatal hernia is much better off eating several small meals rather than one large one.

When Hiatal Hernia Symptoms Do Not Improve With Treatment

If hiatal hernia symptoms such as heartburn do not seem to get better with the standard treatment of antacids, or continues to worsen, then medical attention could be necessary. In addition, any pain that is radiating up into the chest and does not go away with hiatal hernia treatment should also be cause for alarm. Many times people who are suffering from heart attacks mistake the warning signs for other conditions such as hiatal hernias, GERD or chronic heartburn. Additionally, any person who begins vomiting, has difficulty with bowel movements or starts to pass excessive gas, should be seen by a doctor. This could be an indication of a medical emergency such as a strangulated or obstructed hernia. Hiatal hernia symptoms women do not differ from those found in men.

Hiatal hernia symptoms and treatment complications are fairly rare. This condition is usually easy to treat and typically never turns into anything serious, other than an annoyance. However, if you have reason to believe that you may have a hiatal hernia then you should make an appointment to see your doctor. While hiatal hernia symptoms are usually not a problem, it is always better to err on the side of caution where your health is concerned. Many people have hiatal hernias for many years before the onset of symptoms occur. This is all the more reason to have this condition checked if you are not certain.

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