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A hiatus hernia, also known as a hiatal hernia, occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest cavity through the esophageal hiatus in the diaphragm. This condition can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, acid reflux, and chest pain.
The hiatus hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach, known as the fundus, bulges through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. The diaphragm normally has an opening called the esophageal hiatus, through which the esophagus passes to connect with the stomach. When this opening becomes enlarged or weakened, it can allow the stomach to herniate upward.
Location: Hiatus hernias are located at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach, where the esophageal hiatus in the diaphragm is located.
Types: Hiatus hernias are classified into two main types: sliding hiatus hernia and paraesophageal hiatus hernia. Sliding hernias are more common and involve the gastroesophageal junction sliding upward into the chest. Paraesophageal hernias occur when a portion of the stomach protrudes through the esophageal hiatus alongside the esophagus.
Age: Hiatus hernias are more common in older adults, as the muscles and tissues of the diaphragm may weaken with age.
Obesity: Excess weight and obesity can increase intra-abdominal pressure, contributing to the development of hiatus hernias.
Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the abdomen during pregnancy can predispose women to developing hiatus hernias.
Heartburn: One of the most common symptoms of a hiatus hernia is heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing into the esophagus.
Acid Reflux: Patients may experience acid reflux, characterized by regurgitation of stomach acid into the throat or mouth, leading to a sour taste.
Chest Pain: Some individuals with a hiatus hernia may experience chest pain or discomfort, which can be mistaken for symptoms of a heart attack.
Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding large meals, and elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate symptoms of hiatus hernia.
Medications: Over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and relieve symptoms.
Surgery: In severe cases or when conservative measures fail to provide relief, surgical repair of the hiatus hernia may be necessary to reposition the stomach and close the opening in the diaphragm.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help prevent the development or worsening of hiatus hernias.
Avoid Trigger Foods: Avoiding trigger foods that can exacerbate acid reflux, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, and caffeine, may help reduce the risk of hiatus hernia symptoms.
