It occurs when a portion of the stomach slides upward into the chest cavity through the opening in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a muscular layer that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity and provides a passage between the esophagus and the stomach. Enlargement or weakness in this transition area can lead to What is a hiatus hernia? It causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. It may be seen with reflux symptoms.
What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?
It can show different symptoms in each patient and may not cause any symptoms in some people. However, most individuals may experience some uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms usually develop due to the passage of acid between the stomach and the esophagus.
One of the most common symptoms is heartburn. A burning sensation occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This usually occurs after meals. It becomes more pronounced when lying down.
It can be a symptom of burning or pressure in the chest area, especially in the center of the chest. This pain can sometimes be confused with a heart attack, so an accurate diagnosis is important.
Frequent burping and a feeling of bloating in the abdomen are common complaints. The accumulation of stomach gas can cause these symptoms.
It can cause difficulty swallowing by causing narrowing of the esophagus, making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach.
It may cause nausea or vomiting in some individuals. These symptoms may be worse, especially after meals.
Hiatal hernia The symptoms may be similar to other digestive system diseases. Therefore, if the symptoms persist for a long time, a gastroenterologist should be consulted. It is also important to get expert support when the symptoms reduce the quality of life. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment help prevent serious complications.
What is a Hiatal Hernia? What Causes It?
Hiatal hernia, occurs when a portion of the stomach slips through the opening in the diaphragm. This condition causes a health problem by slipping into the chest cavity. The diaphragm is a muscular structure that separates the abdomen and chest cavity and forms a transition point between the esophagus and the stomach. This is caused by the weakening or expansion of the muscle tissue at the transition point.
The exact causes are unknown. However, a number of factors may contribute to the condition, including structural weakness in the diaphragm.
A congenital weakness of the connective tissue or loss of muscle flexibility due to aging may increase the risk. It is more common over the age of 50.
Increased intra-abdominal pressure is also an important factor that may cause it. Severe coughing, heavy lifting, chronic constipation or excessive weight can increase intra-abdominal pressure and push the stomach upwards. Pregnancy is also a condition that increases intra-abdominal pressure and increases the risk.
Eating habits and lifestyle can also contribute. Frequent overeating can strain the stomach, causing this problem. Smoking and certain medications can weaken the muscle between the esophagus and stomach.
Hiatal herniaAlthough it usually starts with mild symptoms, it can cause problems such as reflux, chest pain or difficulty swallowing over time. Therefore, a doctor should be consulted when symptoms are seen.
Hiatal Hernia Treatment Methods
Treatment varies depending on the severity of the hernia, the degree of symptoms, and the person's overall health. In mild cases, lifestyle changes can help relieve symptoms. Avoid lying down immediately after meals to reduce acid reflux
After eating, you should stay upright for at least 2 hours. Small and frequent meals should be preferred. Overfilling the stomach should be avoided.
Losing excess weight can relieve symptoms by reducing intra-abdominal pressure. It is also important to quit habits that harm the stomach, such as smoking and drinking alcohol.
The reflux and acid burn caused by it can be controlled with medications. Some medications reduce stomach acid. These medications relieve symptoms but do not treat the hernia itself. Using medication under the supervision of a doctor ensures that the treatment is effective.
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. When medication and lifestyle changes are inadequate, surgery may be preferred. The stomach is brought into the correct position with surgeries such as laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. In addition, the opening in the diaphragm is repaired. This method both corrects the hernia and reduces reflux symptoms.
Early diagnosis is important in treatment. What is a hiatus hernia? For patients seeking answers to the question, following the correct diagnosis and treatment plan according to the doctor's recommendations increases the quality of life.
