Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is a Hiatal Hernia?

A hiatal hernia happens when part of your stomach pushes up through the opening in your diaphragm. The diaphragm is a muscle that helps you breathe. Normally, your stomach sits below the diaphragm. However, with a hiatal hernia, some of your stomach moves up into your chest. This condition is common, especially in adults over 50. Although many people have no symptoms, some may notice discomfort. Understanding hiatal hernia is important for early care and treatment.

Common Symptoms

Many people with a hiatal hernia do not notice any signs. Still, some may have symptoms that affect daily life. For example, you might feel:

Heartburn or a burning feeling in your chest

Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Difficulty swallowing

Chest pain, especially after eating

Bloating or burping often

Feeling full quickly

Sometimes, symptoms get worse when you bend over or lie down. If you notice these signs, it is wise to talk to your doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors

Hiatal hernia can develop for many reasons. Often, the cause is not clear. However, several factors may increase your risk:

Being over 50 years old

Obesity or being overweight

Smoking

Pregnancy

Heavy lifting or straining

Chronic coughing or sneezing

Injury to the area

As you age, your diaphragm muscles may weaken. This makes it easier for a hiatal hernia to form. In addition, pressure on your belly from coughing or lifting can also play a role.

Diagnosis Methods

Doctors use several ways to find out if you have a hiatal hernia. If you have symptoms, your doctor may suggest tests such as:

Barium swallow X-ray: You drink a special liquid, and X-rays show your stomach and esophagus.

Upper endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera looks inside your throat and stomach.

Esophageal manometry: This test checks how well your esophagus muscles work.

These tests help your doctor see the hernia and decide on the best treatment. According to the National Institutes of Health, these methods are safe and widely used.

Treatment Options

Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on your symptoms. Many people do not need surgery. Instead, doctors often suggest:

Medicines to reduce stomach acid, like antacids or proton pump inhibitors

Changes in diet and eating habits

Losing weight if needed

Stopping smoking

In some cases, surgery may be needed. For example, if you have severe symptoms or complications, your doctor may recommend a procedure to fix the hernia. Surgery is usually safe, but it is only for people who do not get better with other treatments.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

Although you cannot always prevent a hiatal hernia, some steps may help reduce your risk or ease symptoms. For instance, you can:

Eat smaller meals more often

Avoid foods that trigger heartburn, such as spicy or fatty foods

Wait at least two hours after eating before lying down

Raise the head of your bed by six inches

Maintain a healthy weight

Wear loose-fitting clothes

Quit smoking

These simple changes can make a big difference. In addition, they may help you feel better each day.

When to See a Doctor

It is important to know when to seek medical help. You should see a doctor if you:

Have frequent heartburn or chest pain

Notice trouble swallowing

Feel severe pain or vomiting

See blood in your stool or vomit

Early care can prevent problems. Therefore, do not wait if you have these symptoms. Your doctor can guide you on the best steps for your health.

Consult a specialist at Starting New Hospital for personalized guidance on hiatal hernia.