Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] I have a small hiatus hernia and abnormal esophagus which was diagnosed with a endoscopic exam 4yrs ago. I am on 40mg of omeprazole a day. I have noticed for the past 2 weeks everytime i eat it feels like its gone down the wrong hole so to speak and i end up coughing. I have also notice first thing in the morning im coughing alot with thick phlegm which when cleared coughing stops. I dont smoke
[|AI|]  Hi a hiatus hernia phones a person to get reflux of the food back and which leads to aspiration of the gastric content into airway leading to choking and coughing. Only omeprazole will not help you in this situation. You will need a surgery for hiatal hernia repair. Till the time you prepare yourself for the surgery please follow the following instructions:1. Small and frequent meals. No heavy meals.2. Water half an hour before food. No water with the food.3. Keep yourself in either sitting or standing position after meals for at least half an hour.4. Avoid any product which causes constipation.5. No tea, coffee and chocolates. If, you follow these, the chances of aspiration will become less.