A hiatus hernia also goes by the name hiatal hernia. Unlike a sports hernia that takes place in the lower abdomen, a hiatal hernia takes place in the upper stomach area. A hole develops in the esophagus and a part of the stomach pushes through it. These can range in size and severity and they are usually found when you are being examined for anther condition by your doctor.
Significance
When hiatal hernias are small, you may not experience any symptoms at all. But when they become large, symptoms include chest pain, belching, heartburn and nausea. If the part of the stomach that is protruding were to get twisted or if circulation was to be cut off, you can experience severe chest pain, an esophagus obstruction and trouble swallowing which is called dysphagia.
Risks
Risk factors for a hiatal hernia include obesity, smoking and being over 50 years old, according to the Mayo Clinic. A hiatal hernia can cause complications. Iron deficiency can develop with large hernias that cause excessive bleeding from lesions. The diaphragm and lungs can receive an excessive amount of pressure with hernias that are so large that they take up one-third or more of the stomach. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can be caused from a hiatal hernia as well, which can cause a reflux of acid into the esophagus and throat.
Causes
There is no concrete cause for hiatal hernias to appear, but several things can contribute to them. An injury to this area of the body can eventually lead to a hernia. The hiatal opening can be weak or unusually large due to being born that way. Pregnancy, straining to go to the bathroom, lifting heavy objects and persistent coughing can all put a lot of pressure on the abdomen and contribute to a hernia developing.
Prevention/Solution
Antacids are medications that can be bought over-the-counter. They relieve heartburn and help neutralize acid in your esophagus. Medications called H-2 blockers, reduce stomach acid secretion. Examples of these are cimetidine, famotidine and nizatidine. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) allow damaged esophageal tissue to heal by blocking acid production. Examples of these include pantoprazole, omeprazole, lansoprazole and esomeprazole.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle changes are a treatment option for hiatal hernias that involve the reduction of GERD symptoms. Trigger foods like chocolate, mint, spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeinated beverages and alcohol should be avoided. Smaller meals, spread apart, are recommended because larger meals can cause stomach distention. Elevating the head side of your bed can prevent reflux while you are sleeping. Stress reducing activities like yoga, tai-chi and meditative breathing can reduce reflux and improve digestion.
