Hiatal hernia is a digestive problem in which a part of your stomach protrudes through the opening of your diaphragm. Your diaphragm is a thin sheet of muscle that helps your breathe. It also separates your chest from your abdomen.
The opening in your diaphragm, called the hiatus, is normally just large enough to allow your esophagus to pass, but prevents your stomach to push upward beyond your diaphragm. The esophagus is the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach.
Causes Hiatal Hernia
The true cause of hiatal hernia is unknown. However, experts believe that it may be associated with weakening of the hiatus or surrounding tissues.
Some people may be at risk of developing hiatal hernia, such as
-
Advancing age
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms
Most cases of hiatal hernia have no symptoms. Sometimes, hiatal hernia symptoms are associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, which may include heartburn, chest pain and difficulty swallowing.
If your symptoms seem to persist, get medical help.
Hiatal Hernia Treatment
Mild hiatal hernia that does not cause symptoms usually does not need special medical treatment. If your condition causes symptoms, you may need treatment. Your doctor may recommend medications to relieve your symptoms caused by GERD.
Surgery may be the last option if your symptoms are not relieved by medication.
More on Hernia
Learn About
- Gastrosophageal Reflux Disease
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Babies
- Common Stomach Diseases or Disorders
- Common Digestive System Diseases
References:
Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse < http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerd/index.htm>. Accessed on December 15, 2010
Hiatal Hernia. Medline Plus, National Library of Medicine < http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001137.htm>. Accessed on December 15, 2010
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