Final answer:
To control symptoms of a hiatal hernia or GERD, it is generally advised to implement dietary and lifestyle changes rather than toe-touching exercises. These changes include avoiding foods that trigger reflux, eating smaller meals, elevating the head during sleep, quitting smoking, and losing weight if necessary. Medication may be used if lifestyle modifications do not suffice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's recommendation for a patient with a hiatal hernia or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) to control symptoms does not typically include daily toe-touching exercises. Instead, more effective lifestyle changes can be implemented to decrease the amount and acidity of reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. These include:
- Eating smaller meals to reduce the pressure on the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
- Avoiding foods and beverages that are known to increase reflux. This includes chocolate, fatty foods, peppermint, coffee, and alcoholic beverages.
- Not eating late at night and waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down to decrease the likelihood of acid reflux.
- Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated to help gravity keep gastric acid in the stomach.
- Quitting smoking, as it can weaken the LES and worsen GERD symptoms.
- Losing weight if overweight, which can significantly reduce GERD symptoms.
Additionally, if lifestyle modifications are insufficient, the use of antacids or other medications may be recommended to alleviate symptoms. Frequent or chronic symptoms should be evaluated by a physician to rule out more serious conditions and to establish an appropriate treatment plan.