ABOUT THE DISEASE

Hiatal hernia is defined as a condition in which the stomach bulges up through the hiatus (an opening in the diaphragm) and into the chest cavity.

This happens when the contents of stomach, which are acidic, reflux (flow backwards) into oesophagus.

SYMPTOMS

In general, a hiatus hernia won`t show any sign or symptoms. But at times symptoms include:

• • Severe pain or discomfort in your chest
• • Belching
• • Hiccups
• • Gurgling noises in your chest
• • Heartburn
• • GERD
• • Difficulty swallowing
• • Feeling especially full after meals
• • Vomiting blood or passing black stools, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding

CAUSES

The exact reason behind the development of hiatus hernia is still not clear. However, hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and strain. Depending on its cause, a hernia can develop quickly or over a long period of time.
• Larger hiatal opening by birth
• Increased pressure in the abdomen due to:

- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Straining during bowel movements

DIAGNOSIS

Mostly this is diagnosed with the help of :
- Clinical Evaluation
- An esophagram (barium swallow)
- Endoscopy

TREATMENT METHODS

Is avoidable in the case of people who are not experiencing any signs or symptoms.

If one is experience any of the symptoms, it may require treatment, which can include medications or a surgery.

MEDICATIONS to ease GERD (Reflux) and heartburn symptoms:

1) Antacids that neutralize stomach acid
2) Medications to reduce acid production
3) Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus

SURGERY:
In some cases, a hiatal hernia may require laparoscopic surgery, if it is not helped by medications and there is a danger of becoming constricted or strangulated.

You may also like to learn about:

Hernia
Intestinal Obstruction
Ascites
Intestinal Adhesions
Cystic fibrosis
Inflammatory Bowel disease