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Hiatal hernia Causes and Risks:
The cause is unknown but may be the result of a weakening of the supporting tissue. Obesity and smoking may be risk factors in adults. Children usually have this condition present at birth (congenital). It is usually associated with gastroesophageal reflux in infants.
Hiatal hernias are very common, especially in people over 50 years old. Regurgitation of gastric acid from the stomach into the esophagus can result from this condition.
Prevention:
Controlling risk factors may play a preventative role.
Symptoms:
Note: Frequently there are no symptoms.
Signs and Tests:
Treatment:
The goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Medical therapy is aimed at reducing regurgitation of stomach contents into the esophagus ( gastroesophageal reflux ). Medications that neutralize stomach acidity, or that strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, may be prescribed.
Other measures to reduce symptoms include: - avoiding large or heavy meals
- never lying down or bending over immediately after a meal
- weight reduction and smoking cessation
Failure to control the symptoms by general or medical measures, or the onset of complications, may require surgical repair of the hernia.
Prognosis:
Most symptoms are alleviated with treatment.
Complications:
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate you may have developed a hiatal hernia.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have a hiatal hernia and symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or new symptoms develop.
This X-ray shows the upper portion of the stomach protruding through the diaphragm (hiatal hernia).
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