A hiatal hernia is the protrusion of the stomach upward into the chest cavity through an opening in the diaphragm, according to Penn State University. The stomach is normally located in the abdomen. The diaphragm separates the chest from the abdomen and helps keep the stomach in the abdomen. Hiatal hernia occurs when muscle tissue at the opening of the diaphragm where the esophagus passes through the stomach weakens.
Parathyroid
Parathyroids are small endocrine glands located in the neck, according to MedlinePlus. Parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which helps keep the right balance of calcium and phosphorous in the body. Those with inadequate parathyroid hormone have hypoparathyroidism, which leads to low calcium levels and high phosphorus in the blood. Treatment of hypoparathyroidism with calcium supplements may worsen hiatal hernia symptoms in patients with the condition. Calcium supplements stimulate the release or gastrin, a hormone that is responsible for the stimulation of acid secretion in the stomach.
Heartburn and Chest Pain
A hiatal hernia by itself rarely causes symptoms, according to Penn State University. Heartburn and chest pain experienced by patients with hiatal hernia is usually because of the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Reflux occurs more often when there is a hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia prevents the proper closure of the stomach, leading to the back flow of acid into the stomach. Patients with hypoparathyroidism who take calcium supplements experience more reflux because the calcium supplements cause them to produce excess stomach acid. Reflux is worse when lying down or bending. In order to prevent heartburn and reflux, hypoparathyroidism patients should not lie down for at least two hours after taking calcium supplements.
Difficulty Swallowing
Severe hiatal hernia symptoms may damage the esophagus and lead to problems in swallowing. A hiatal hernia increases the risk of frequent acid reflux. Patients with frequent untreated acid reflux experience damage to the lining of the esophagus, which leads to the narrowing of the esophagus and difficulties in swallowing.
