A hiatal hernia is a condition in which a portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm. While the Mayo Clinic reports that small hiatal hernias usually cause no outward symptoms, larger ones can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Not only is hiatal hernia one of the possible causes of GERD, it can have similar symptoms on its own as well.
Acid Reflux
One of the main symptoms of both GERD and a hiatal hernia is acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acids creep back up into the esophagus. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) reports that acid reflux associated with GERD may be caused by a weak or improperly functioning lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. According to the Mayo Clinic, acid reflux caused by GERD and a hiatal hernia can cause a sour taste in the mouth, as stomach acids creep closer to the back of the throat.
Heartburn
Larger hiatal hernias, according to the Mayo Clinic, may cause symptoms of heartburn. The NDDIC reports that heartburn (also called acid indigestion) is one of the main signs of GERD as well. Heartburn causes burning sensations in the esophagus, and may be felt in the middle abdomen, chest or throat. The feeling of heartburn is caused by stomach acids as they travel up to the back of the throat. Medline Plus reports that heartburn symptoms associated with GERD are usually worse when a person is bending over or lying down.
Dry Cough
GERD, including the type caused by a hiatal hernia, can cause asthma-like symptoms and coughing, according to the NDDIC. Respiratory symptoms such as a persistent dry cough and wheezing can be triggered by acid reflux; however, the NDDIC reports that specialized testing may be required to determine if such symptoms are caused by GERD or something else.
Difficulty Swallowing
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, may result from GERD or a hiatal hernia. The Mayo Clinic reports that a person with GERD may feel a sensation like a "lump in the throat;" however, swallowing problems associated with GERD can be more severe. According to the NDDIC, when stomach acids are persistently present in the esophagus, they can cause scarring over time. When this scar tissue builds up, it may be more difficult to pass food through.
Chest Pain
Chest pain associated with GERD and hiatal hernia are likely the result of acid reflux and acid indigestion. However, any episode of chest pain should always be investigated by a doctor. The Mayo Clinic reports that sometimes, GERD symptoms can mimic those of a heart attack. It can be difficult, therefore, to determine which is which. Chest pain accompanied by other pain sensations in the jaw or arm, in addition to shortness of breath, requires immediate medical attention.
