Hernia’s Most Common form is Hiatal Hernia

Many people are suffering from various types of hernia. But, most of them are suffering from hiatal hernia. Other types which are less common are: inguinal hernia, umbilical hernia, and sports hernia.

A hernia occurs when an organs pushes in an aperture in the muscles that surrounds it. In hiatal hernias case, the upper part of the stomach gets into the chest through an aperture in the diaphragm, called the hiatus. The muscle, diaphragm, separates the thoracic cavity from the abdomen. The hiatus is the orifice in the diaphragm through which passes the esophagus to reach the stomach.

Incase of hiatal hernia, the upper stomach and esophagus end slips through the weakened hiatus. This type of hernia is called sliding hernia. Some also suffer from another type of hernia called paraesophageal hernia which is more dangerous. In this case, a part of the upper stomach only gets past the hiatus and strangles the esophagus to stop its blood supply.

The cause of hiatal hernia is not known exactly. It may be due to accidental hit sustained on the chest or abdomen. It may also due to prolonged coughing; some extra pressure was created in the abdominal cavity or may be due to pregnancy.

Hiatal hernia does not show any symptoms. So, inspite of having it, people remain unaware of the same. Somehow, it doesn’t cause much harm. But when strangulation occurs, one will have to undergo surgery to put the stomach back to normal position. It is preferably done by laparoscope whereby a small incision is made on the chest.

Many people live without experiencing any problem from hiatal hernia although they are aware of its presence in their body. But, if they start feeling increased pain in the stomach and even vomit, then they are in danger of strangulation, and one must consult the Doctor immediately.