The Basics of Hiatal Hernias

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through an opening in the diaphragm, and up into the chest. This opening is called a esophageal hiatus or diaphragmatic hiatus. Approximately 50 percent of hiatal hernia patients don't experience any symptoms. For the other 50 percent of patients, the these hiatal hernia symptoms may occur. There are a number of contributing factors that can cause hiatal hernias. While some patients with a hernia hernia may also have GERD, GERD doesn't cause a hiatal hernia. Various tests can be used to diagnose a hiatal hernia, though the tests most often used are the barium x-ray and the upper endoscopy. After the presence of a hernia is diagnosed, the treatment will vary by patient. As mentioned above, approximately 50% of patients with a hiatal hernia won't experience any symptoms, and may not require any special treatment. For those who do experience symptoms, which are usually heartburn related, they can discuss with their doctor the lifestyle modifications, the dietary changes, and any medications (such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors) that may be needed. In some cases, such as when complications occur with a paraesophageal hiatal hernia, surgery may be needed. This type of surgery is commonly done as a laparoscopic procedure.The Basics of Hiatal Hernias originally appeared on About.com Heartburn / GERD on Monday, June 10th, 2013 at 06:02:14.Permalink | Comment | Email this
Source: About Heartburn / Acid Reflux - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news