What are the Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia and the Treatment for Hiatal Hernia?

Hiatal hernia is a condition in which a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through a weakened opening in the diaphragm. This opening is known as the hiatus. Hiatal hernias are common, affecting approximately 60% of people over the age of 50. In most cases, hiatal hernias do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment. However, in some cases, hiatal hernias can cause symptoms that can be severe enough to affect a person’s quality of life. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of hiatal hernia and the treatment options available.

Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia:

The most common symptoms of hiatal hernia are:

Heartburn: This is the most common symptom of hiatal hernia and is caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

Chest Pain: Chest pain may be felt in the chest and is often mistaken for angina or a heart attack.

Belching: Belching and burping are often associated with hiatal hernia.

Nausea: Nausea can be caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

Vomiting: Vomiting can occur as a result of the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

Difficulty Swallowing: Difficulty swallowing, also known as dysphagia, can be caused by a hiatal hernia.

Shortness of Breath: Shortness of breath can occur if the hiatal hernia is large and causes pressure on the lungs.

Fatigue: Fatigue can occur if the hiatal hernia is causing the body to work harder to digest food.

Treatment for Hiatal Hernia:

Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on the severity of the symptoms. In many cases, lifestyle changes and medications are enough to relieve the symptoms of hiatal hernia. However, in some cases, surgery may be necessary.

Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding tight clothing, and avoiding foods that trigger heartburn can help to relieve the symptoms of hiatal hernia.

Medications: Antacids and acid-suppressing medications can help to relieve the symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux.

Surgery: Surgery is only recommended for patients with severe symptoms or complications from their hiatal hernia. The goal of surgery is to repair the hiatus and prevent the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

In conclusion, hiatal hernia is a common condition in which a portion of the stomach protrudes into the chest cavity through a weakened opening in the diaphragm. The symptoms of hiatal hernia can range from mild to severe and can include heartburn, chest pain, belching, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on the severity of the symptoms and can range from lifestyle changes and medications to surgery in severe cases. If you are experiencing symptoms of hiatal hernia, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment for you.