GI Associates: Looking at Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia forms when part of the stomach extends into the chest, through an opening in the diaphragm. The diaphragm normally has a small opening called the hiatus, which allows food to pass through on its way to connect to the stomach. A hiatal hernia forms when the muscle tissues around the opening become weak and the upper part of the stomach extends up into the chest cavity. Other possible causes include persistent and intense pressure to those muscles caused by coughing, vomiting or heavy lifting, an injury to the area or being born with a large hiatus.
It is possible to have a small hiatal hernia, without knowing it because they usually have no symptoms. Your gastroenterologist may only find it if they are checking for other gastrointestinal problems. A large hiatal hernia, however, can allow food and acid to back up into the esophagus, leading to heartburn and chest pain.
What Are The Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia?
You will most likely not experience any symptoms of a small hiatal hernia, however these are some symptoms of a large hiatal hernia.
- Chest pain
- Heartburn that worsens when lying down or bending over
- Burping
- Difficultly swallowing
- Nausea
What Kinds Of Treatments Are There?
The easiest way to relieve symptoms and to prevent any further problems is to try to prevent heartburn. The gastrointestinal specialists at GI Associates can help you find the right medications to neutralize stomach acidity, decrease acid production, or strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter. Avoiding large, heavy meals or lying down immediately after a meal can also help as well as losing weight, if necessary. If none of these methods work then it may be necessary to have surgery to repair the hiatal hernia.
Make an appointment with one of the gastrointestinal specialists at GI Associates if you think you may have some of the symptoms of hiatal hernia or if you have any questions.