A hiatal hernia occurs when part of your stomach pushes up through the small opening, or hiatus, in your diaphragm. Often, you will have no symptoms and there is no need for treatment. However, if the hernia is large, it can cause reflux, belching, heartburn and chest pain. In this case, see a doctor. Although exercise is not specifically used to treat this condition, being overweight can put you at risk for this type of hernia. Increasing your activity levels to lose weight can reduce symptoms or prevent the condition in the first place.
Causes
Your diaphragm muscle separates your chest from your abdomen and has an opening -- the hiatus -- through which your esophagus passes into your stomach. If the muscles surrounding this opening are weak, your stomach can push through them into your chest cavity, causing a hiatal hernia. This condition is most common in people who are overweight, over 50 or smokers, because in each of these cases, the affected muscles tend to be weaker.
Treatment
The usual treatment for a hiatal hernia is medication to reduce the heartburn and reflux that is associated with the condition. These side effects are very common because the hernia means acid from your stomach can easily flow into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your throat. Antacids are often prescribed to neutralize the acid and reduce production of it.
Lifestyle Remedies
In addition to prescribing medication, your doctor may recommend that you make changes to your diet and eating patterns. Taking small meals more frequently -- instead of big, heavy meals less often -- can help reduce acid production and ease reflux and heartburn. Avoid foods that tend to boost acid production, such as onions, spicy dishes, citrus fruits and tomatoes. Reduce your consumption of alcohol, which can cause heartburn and acid reflux.
Prevention
Prevent a hiatal hernia by maintaining a healthy weight. It's no secret that the best way to do this is to eat a healthy, low-fat diet and exercise regularly. Simple ways to achieve this in your daily routine include taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking part or all of the way to work, and delivering messages to colleagues in person instead of calling or emailing them.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Hiatal Hernia
- Mayo Clinic: Hiatal Hernia - Causes
- MedlinePlus: Hiatal Hernia
- Mayo Clinic: Hiatal Hernia -- Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hiatal Hernia - Prevention
- weightlossresources.co.uk: The Importance of Regular Exercise; by Julia Kellow, BSc RD
