Relationship of Hiatal Hernia with GERD and Acid Reflux

It causes the internal organs to penetrate the protective muscles wall that surrounds the same. Depending upon the organs involved. There can be different types of hernia. In Hiatal hernia the stomach presses against the esophageal hiatus, an opening in the diaphragm. The hiatus when gets weakened, the material inside the stomach gets inside the esophageal causing Hiatal hernia. When the disorder occurs in the upper side of diaphragm, it is called sliding hiatal hernia, if the disorder is on the lower side of diaphragm; it is referred to as a paraesophageal hiatal hernia.

Hiatal hernia affects both sexes equally and at any age. But the incidence is more with elderly and also overweight people. A person who indulges in weight lifting or physical effort is susceptible to the disorder.

Hiatal hernia symptoms vary differently with various people. With some, there are no symptoms and with others it may cause heart burn, abdominal pain, nausea and discomfort, with some heartburn increases after meals. The symptoms occur due to reflux of stomach contents in the esophageal. To diagnose hiatal hernia, Doctors perform additional tests to confirm clinical diagnose. The tests are M.R.I, X-ray scan, computerized tomography and laparoscope’s for quick diagnose.

It normally does not need surgery in hiatal hernia. Doctors prescribe antacids to counter heartburns and many cases no medication is required. Surgery is only required in very complicated forms of hiatal hernia. However, surgical option is quick and safe and the patients recover very quickly after the operation.

In uncomplicated hiatal hernia, it is recommended to reorganize life style. Appropriate diet and healthy eating schedule have proved beneficial. One should not perform any weight lifting nor strain himself to avoid complications.

Hiatal hernia is the least threatening form of hernia but it is very common. In many cases the disorder disappears by itself. But, if the disorder and the symptoms persists and gets intense , one must contact the Doctor.