If you are living with a hiatal hernia, normal activies may become difficult. If you have been told you need hernia surgery or if you need to see a hernia specialist, the Digestive & Liver Disease Center of San Antonio can help.
Learn more about hiatal hernias in the text below or in the video.
What is Hiatal Hernia?
Hiatal Hernia – This condition develops when part of your stomach pushes up through an opening in your diaphragm called the hiatus. The diaphragm separates your chest from your abdominal cavity. The hiatus is the opening that your esophagus passes through. If the muscle tissue around your hiatus is not strong enough or if your hiatus is abnormally large, a hiatal hernia can form.
Cause of Hiatal Hernia
It can be caused by lifting heavy objects. It can be caused by coughing or by straining when you move your bowels. It can be caused by injury. It can also develop because of a problem with the structure of your diaphragm. Obesity increases your risk for this type of hernia. It is also more common in people that are older.
Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia
Symptoms may include heartburn and chest pain; you may have difficulty swallowing; you may belch; you may feel uncomfortably full after you eat a meal; you may also have bleeding in your digestive tract – this can cause you to vomit blood; you may have stools that appear black.
Treatment options may include medications and weight loss. You may benefit from modifications to your diet and to the way you eat. If these are not helpful, you may benefit from a surgical procedure to repair your hernia. Your healthcare provider can create a care plan that is right for your needs.
