what is the difference between GERD and a hiatal hernia - Hernia Message Board

zoesmom · 09-05-2003, 11:32 AM

Can someone tell me the difference between GERD and a hiatal hernia? My DH has an exclusion on his insurance for Hiatal Hernia and has been diagnosed with GERD. Blue Cross pays for his Aciphex that he takes for GERD and I was wondering the difference. He has been having problems and is seeing the dr next week. God forbid he ever get cancer of the esophagus or something hiatal hernia related. Can someone tell me the difference in these two and put my mind at ease.

Also do you know if any natural alternatives for taking the Aciphex. At $118 a month, it's killing me. TIA

flyonthewall · 09-05-2003, 01:50 PM

Gerd is acid reflux. You can get that with or without a hiatal hernia.

Have you looked into Canada for the meds?

fly