| Hiatal Hernia What is a hiatal hernia?
Hernia is a protrusion of part of an organ through the wall
of the cavity that contains it. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach
pushes up into the chest through a small opening in the diaphragm, the muscle that
separates the stomach from the chest. A hiatal hernia results in retention of acid and
other contents above this opening. These acids and other substances can easily reflux into
the esophagus.
Many people age 50 and over have small hiatal hernias, however, hiatal
hernias may affect people of all ages.
What causes hiatal hernia?
Suggested causes of hiatal hernia include:
- coughing
- vomiting
- straining
- sudden physical exertion
Obesity and pregnancy also contribute to this disorder.
Treatment for hiatal hernia:
Specific treatment will be determined by your physician(s) based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the disease
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- expectations for the course of the disease
- your opinion or preference
Although hiatal hernias usually do not require treatment, treatment may
be necessary if the hernia is:
- in danger of becoming strangulated (twisted in a way that cuts off blood
supply).
- complicated by severe GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
- complicated by esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus).
Surgery may be needed in these cases to reduce the size of the hernia,
or to prevent strangulation.
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