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Hiatal hernia symptoms are a sign of a hernia in the stomach that pushes up through the diaphragm. A hiatus in anatomy is a natural opening. The diaphragm is a small hiatus that allows the esophagus to pass through as it connects to the stomach. When the stomach pushes through this opening, a hernia is formed. In most cases, this type of hernia doesn’t cause any type or problem and can go unnoticed. Larger hernias will push food and acid to back up into the esophagus causing chest pain or heartburn. Medicine is generally an effective hiatal hernia treatment, but surgery can be required in some cases.

Hiatal hernia causes include a weakened muscle tissue that allows for the stomach to bulge through the diaphragm. Pressure from the stomach contributes to this formation. Other causes include injury to the area, an inherited large hiatus, inherited weakened muscles that surround the area or consistent pressure to the muscles caused by coughing or vomiting. Straining while lifting heavy objects can also cause sliding hernias. Persons that are over the age of 50, persons who are smokers, or those that are obese are a higher risk.

Symptoms include a hoarse voice, difficulty swallowing, or the feeling of a lump in the throat. Most symptoms are not caused by the hernia, but are a result of the acid reflux. These symptoms include nausea, belching, chest pain, and heartburn. Symptoms that are continuous or severe may be a result to gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. Often this condition and hiatal hernias occur together. If there is a shortness of breath or pain in the chest, it could be a result of heart problems and should be examined.

Since many hiatal hernias go undiagnosed, they are generally found while physicians are looking for other medical conditions. X-rays of the upper digestive tract shows a clear silhouette of the esophagus and can show results of a hernia. The use of a scope can also provide positive results for a hernia. During this test, a thin tube with a camera is slid down the throat and into the esophagus to check for inflammation. Since the hernia rarely causes any problems other than GERD, the use of antiacids and acid neutralizers blocks symptoms.

Over the counter options are available or prescriptions strength H-2 receptors can be taken on a daily basis to prevent symptoms. Hiatal hernia repair for more serious cases can involve surgery. It is a procedure that is generally only required in emergency situations for people who receive little or not relief from medications. The operation is a laparoscopic surgery, performed by pulling the stomach down and making the diaphragm opening smaller.

Preventive measure can be taken and include not lying down or bending over after a meal, reducing weight, smoking cessation, and avoiding foods or activities that trigger heartburn. Small changes in a person’s lifestyle is the most effective way to prevent hiatal hernia symptoms.