Patient Questions

Straight answers to the questions patients ask most about heartburn, gallbladder pain, hernias, diverticulitis, colon surgery and colonoscopy, written by Dr. Matthew Tufts, a minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL.

Heartburn, reflux & hiatal hernia · Gallbladder & right-side belly pain · Groin & belly button hernias · Diverticulitis & colon surgery · Colonoscopy & rectal bleeding

Heartburn, reflux & hiatal hernia

• Why won’t my heartburn go away, even on medicine?
• Can a hiatal hernia heal on its own without surgery?
• Is a paraesophageal hernia dangerous?
• Why does food feel stuck in my chest, or my chest feel tight, after eating?
• Does acid reflux surgery (Nissen fundoplication) work?
• How long is recovery after hiatal hernia surgery?

Gallbladder & right-side belly pain

• Is pain under my right ribs after eating my gallbladder?
• Do gallstones go away on their own?
• Can you live a normal life without a gallbladder? What can you eat?
• How long is recovery after gallbladder surgery?

Groin & belly button hernias

• Is a bulge in my groin or belly button a hernia?
• Does an inguinal hernia go away without surgery?
• How long after hernia surgery can I lift, drive and go back to work?

Diverticulitis & colon surgery

• Is pain in my lower left belly diverticulitis?
• When does diverticulitis need surgery?
• Will I need a colostomy bag after colon surgery?
• How long is recovery after colon resection surgery?

Colonoscopy & rectal bleeding

• Bright red blood in my stool: when should I worry?
• When should I get a colonoscopy, and how often?
• Is a colonoscopy painful? What should I expect from the prep and the exam?

Don’t see your question? Call (941) 391-5102 to schedule a visit with Dr. Tufts.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Matthew Tufts, MD, FACS, a board-certified minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL. Last reviewed 2026-11-11.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every patient is different. Dr. Tufts will review your history, exam and test results with you and explain the options, benefits and risks that apply to you.