Gastroenterology

Hiatal hernia:

What is a hiatal hernia?

A hernia very common condition in which there is a protrusion of a section of an organ through the muscle wall that surrounds the organ. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm, which is the muscle that separates the stomach from the chest. A hiatal hernia results in the retention of acid and other stomach contencts.

There are two types of hiatal hernias: sliding hiatal hernias and fixed hiatal hernias. The sliding type, as its name implies, occurs when the junction between the stomach and esophagus slides up through the esophageal hiatus during moments of increased pressure in the abdominal cavity. When the pressure is relieved, the stomach falls back down with gravity to its normal position. The fixed type (or paraesophageal) implies that there is no sliding up and down. A portion of the stomach remains stuck in the chest cavity.

What causes a hiatal hernia?

Suggested causes or contributing factors of hiatal hernias may include some of the following:

excessive coughing
vomiting
straining with constipation
smoking
congenital defects
obesity
poor posture
sudden physical exertion or straining

What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?

For many people, a hiatal hernia by itself will cause no symptoms; however, common side effects may include:

chest pain or pressure
heart burn
coughing
belching
burping
difficulty swallowing

Treatment options:

Specific treatment for hiatal hernia will be determined by a physician based on several factors that may include: age, overall health, medical history and the extent of the condition. Some treatment options may include lifestyle changes, diet modifications, and medicine.

Additional patient resources:

University of Missouri Health Care

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This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.