1. Watch for Indigestion
People who have large hiatal hernias may experience symptoms that are similar to indigestion. A hiatal hernia occurs when a hole is created in your diaphragm and allows a small part of your stomach to poke through. When the hernia becomes strangulated, the protruding part of your stomach becomes twisted and blood supply to that area of your body is cut off. If you have this condition, you may burp more than normal and have heartburn after eating. You might feel nauseated as well.
2. Be Alert to Severe Chest Pain
One of the symptoms that separates a regular hiatal hernia from a strangulated hernia is the severity of chest pain you experience. Some people who have larger hiatal hernias may feel some mild discomfort in their chests. Very serious chest pain--intense enough to make you think you are having a heart attack--can be a sign that your hernia is strangulated. Have your chest pain checked out by your doctor to rule out heart problems and to discuss treatment options.
3. Note Trouble Swallowing
Difficulties with swallowing (called dysphagia) can alert you to the fact that you have a strangulated hiatal hernia. This type of hernia occurs at the point where your stomach and esophagus meet each other; the twisting of you stomach in this location can cause an obstruction in your esophagus, making it hard for you to swallow.
4. Check for Signs of Anemia
In rare cases, a strangulated hiatal hernia can bleed--you may find blood in your stool--and will cause you to develop anemia. Anemia means you don't have enough red blood cells in your body, and is commonly caused by blood loss. You might feel weak and tired as a result. A blood test will show if you have this condition as a result of your hernia.
