@mrobi hey there, yes I had a hiatal hernia! They kept stringing me along on Pantoprazole and finally sent me to specialist who referred me to a surgeon. I had surgery Sept. 26, the first week is rough, it was laparoscopic. the diet is the worst part! you must follow it to heal correctly. soft diet and clear liquids for first 2 weeks, gradually can add oatmeal, cream of wheat, puddings, ice cream, protein shakes. I am now starting to eat some of my regular food, no soda pop though and no breads yet. I do not regret having the surgery at all, it was the Toupet procedure. Yes they disected out the hernia and stitched me up. the stomach is now below the diaphram. I had an excellent surgeon.