Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is an abnormality in the patient’s anatomy which allows for a small portion of the stomach to protrude up through the opening where the esophagus joins the stomach. This is believed to occur over several years. Some medical experts believe it is caused by the shortening of the esophagus from inflammation. Scaring can occur from reflux or regurgitation of stomach acids after years of inflammation. This scarring can pull the stomach up bringing that opening further up into the chest. It is thought that approximately 15% of the population suffer from the symptoms of a hiatal hernia.

Two types of hiatal hernias can be medically documented. The first type is called a Sliding Hiatal Hernia. This is the most common and and is less symptomatic to the patient. The actual herniation occurs during a swallow, then returns to normal sliding back down through the opening when the muscles relax. The symptoms of a sliding hiatal hernia can range from nothing at all to heartburn, nausea, and regurgitation. These symptoms also go along with the diagnosis of GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). Some patients with GERD are believed to have mild form of hiatal hernia, but that is not always the case.

Besides nausea, heartburn, and regurgitation, patients with a hiatal hernia can experience chest pain. It is important to have new onset chest pain evaluated by a doctor to prevent a more serious condition from being overlooked.

The second type of hiatal hernia documented is called a Para-esophageal hiatal hernia. This is a hiatal hernia much larger. The process of swallowing can cause the hernia protrusion up into the esophagus to actually impede food from passing through to the stomach. This causes severe mid sternal chest pain at the point of where the food gets lodged and may cause vomiting and choking. Ulcers may form due to the trauma of food being stuck for long periods of time and from excessive acid build up. This type of hiatal hernia is not as common, but may require surgical intervention if not treated.

Treatment for a hiatal hernia can include medications to reduce stomach acid and dietary regulations. Eating low acid foods and limiting carbonated beverages go a long way in reducing the symptoms. Also eating smaller portions at each meal or smaller more frequent meals can reduce symptoms. Chewing food well and drinking water with meals will limit some of the symptoms as well. Avoiding excess alcohol intake, aspirin products, and high acid foods can be helpful too. Symptoms will become more uncomfortable when over-eating and when consuming high acid or spicy foods.

If you believe you may have a hiatal hernia, the best advice is to see your family doctor to get the proper diagnosis. Stomach ulcers, Gerd, and Gall Bladder disease can all display similar symptoms. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent further discomfort and complications. Your family physician is the best place to start for medical advice and treatment.

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