Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal Hernia Causes
The following are possible causes or contributing factors for having a hiatus hernia. Increased pressure within the abdomen caused by: Heavy lifting or frequent bending over, Frequent or hard coughing, Hard sneezing, Violent vomiting, Straining with constipation, Obesity, Use of the sitting position for defecation.
Hiatal Hernia Definition
A hiatus hernia or hiatal hernia is the protrusion (or herniation) of the upper part of the stomach into the thorax through a tear or weakness in the diaphragm.
Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a hiatus hernia is typically made through an upper GI series or endoscopy.
Hiatal Hernia Symptoms and Signs
The symptoms have acid reflux, and pain, similar to heartburn, in the chest and upper stomach. Hernia symptoms are severe and chronic acid reflux is involved, surgery is commonly recommended, as chronic reflux can severely injure the esophagus and even lead to esophageal cancer. Most of the patient's hiatus hernias due to no symptoms. Usually patients experience heartburn and regurgitation, when stomach acid refluxes back into the esophagus.
Hiatal Hernia Treatment
In most cases, sufferers experience no discomfort and no treatment is required. But, when the hiatal hernia is large, or is of the paraesophageal type, it is likely to cause esophageal stricture and discomfort. Symptomatic patients could elevate the head of their beds and avoid lying down directly after meals until treatment is rendered.