Acid reflux and hiatus hernia, also called hiatal hernia, both occur because of weakened tissues. Acid reflux results from a lower esophageal sphincter that does not work properly. The sphincter, a muscle valve, normally opens when food enters the stomach, and closes to prevent the backup of stomach contents. When it does not close tightly, acid rises from the stomach into the esophagus, causing heartburn. When supporting tissue weakens in the hiatus, an opening in the diaphragm between the chest cavity and abdomen, the stomach bulges up into the chest, often increasing acid reflux.
Effects
People who have acid reflux more than twice a week may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The action of acid reflux leads to the painful sensations of heartburn in the chest that rise into to the throat and sometimes causes a bitter or sour taste in the back of the throat or mouth.
Identification
Symptoms of hiatus hernia are often related to heartburn or GERD. Difficulty swallowing may occur, MedlinePlus notes. Sometimes people with hiatus hernia have no symptoms. Some people suffer from chest pain that mimics having a heart attack, the Cleveland Clinic notes. Acid reflux also causes heartburn that results in painful sensations in the chest, especially after eating a large meal. Medical testing of the esophageal and upper digestive system can detect acid reflux or hiatus hernia problems and rule out more serious disorders.
Prevention
People can prevent the symptoms of acid reflux and hiatus hernia in a similar manner. Losing weight, eating smaller meals and not lying down until at least three hours after eating reduces the risk of heartburn. A change in diet includes avoiding foods that cause heartburn for people with acid reflux or hiatus hernia problems. Foods that may trigger acid reflux include fatty or fried foods, tomato-based products, citrus fruits, caffeine and alcoholic beverages. Particular foods bother some people.
Considerations
Although symptoms often subside through lifestyle changes for people with acid reflux and hiatus hernia, medication sometimes is necessary to relieve the disorders. Over-the-counter antacids or acid reducers that prevent stomach acid production help many people with either or both conditions. Some people need stronger prescription medication from their doctor.
Surgery
Doctors recommend surgery for either condition as a last resort. Techniques include reinforcing the esophageal sphincter to prevent acid reflux, or strengthening the abdominal tissues for people who have a hiatus hernia. In rare cases of hiatus hernia, part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus and moves next to the esophagus, causing a strangulated hernia that can cut off blood supply, the Cleveland Clinic notes. Pain when eating, nausea, vomiting and bowel problems may accompany other symptoms with this type of hernia. Doctors often recommend corrective surgery in these cases.
