Hiatal Hernia Explained: Early Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Effective Treatments

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 and separates your chest from your belly. Normally, your stomach stays below the diaphragm. However, with a hiatal hernia, a small part moves up into your chest. This condition is common, especially in adults over 50. Many people in the United States have a hiatal hernia and may not know it. Often, it does not cause problems, but sometimes it leads to symptoms that need attention.

Common Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia

Many people with a hiatal hernia do not notice any symptoms. Still, some may feel discomfort. For example, you might experience:

Heartburn or a burning feeling in your chest

Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Difficulty swallowing

Chest pain, especially after eating

Bloating or burping

Feeling full quickly when eating

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

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors are not always sure what causes a hiatal hernia. However, several factors can increase your risk. For instance, these include:

Being overweight or obese

Getting older, especially over age 50

Smoking

Pregnancy

Heavy lifting or straining

Chronic coughing or sneezing

Injury to the area

Sometimes, a weak diaphragm muscle can make it easier for a hiatal hernia to form. Family history may also play a role.

How Hiatal Hernia is Diagnosed

If you have symptoms of a hiatal hernia, your doctor may suggest tests. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, you may have one or more of these tests:

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 goes down your throat to look at your esophagus and stomach.

Esophageal manometry: This test measures the strength and movement of your esophagus.

These tests help your doctor see if you have a hiatal hernia and how severe it is. According to the National Institutes of Health, these tests are safe and common.

Treatment Options

Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on your symptoms. Many people do not need treatment if they have no symptoms. However, if you have discomfort, your doctor may suggest:

Medicines to reduce stomach acid, such as antacids or proton pump inhibitors

Changes in your eating habits, like eating smaller meals

Not lying down right after eating

In rare cases, surgery may be needed. Surgery is usually for people with severe symptoms or complications. Your doctor will help you decide the best treatment for your situation.

Lifestyle Tips and Prevention

While you cannot always prevent a hiatal hernia, some steps may help lower your risk. For example, you can:

Maintain a healthy weight

Avoid heavy lifting or straining

Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Stop smoking

Wear loose-fitting clothes around your waist

Raise the head of your bed if you have nighttime symptoms

These tips can also help manage hiatal hernia symptoms. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthy habits support your overall well-being.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, hiatal hernia symptoms can be serious. For instance, if you have severe chest pain, trouble swallowing, or vomiting blood, seek medical help right away. Also, if your symptoms do not improve with home care, make an appointment with your doctor. Early care can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life.

In summary, hiatal hernia is common and often mild. However, knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help you stay healthy. Consult us today for personalized advice on hiatal hernia.