A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.
This condition is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and erosive esophagitis.
Both of which can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.
This blog focuses on the role of acid reflux and erosive esophagitis, exploring the causes, symptoms, and management of hiatal hernia.
Causes of Hiatal Hernia
Understanding the exact cause of a hiatal hernia is essential for managing and preventing complications such as acid reflux and erosive esophagitis. It can be the result of several factors. This includes anatomy, lifestyle, and age-related changes.
Weak points of the diaphragm
The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavitY, with a gap for the esophagus to pass through.
Increased intra-abdominal pressure
Conditions or activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure can cause a hiatal hernia. Common causes are:
- Obesity
- Chronic cough
- Lifting heavy objects or straining
- pregnancy
- Constipation and tension during bowel movements
Age-related factors
The risk of a hiatal hernia increases with age. This is because the muscles and tissues of the diaphragm can naturally weaken over time.
Factors that are Present from Birth
Some people have extensive fractures or other structural abnormalities. They are prone to hernia breakage.
Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia
Symptoms of a hiatal hernia can vary greatly. It depends on its size and whether it causes complications such as acid reflux disease or erosive esophagitis. Many people with small hiatal hernias remain asymptomatic. At the same time, others with a large hernia can experience significant discomfort.
General Symptoms
- Heartburn: Burning sensation in the chest. It is usually worse after eating or lying down. It is a symptom of acid reflux caused by a hiatal hernia.
- Regurgitation: Stomach acid or reflux can occur, especially when bending over or lying down.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Some people may have difficulty swallowing because of an inflamed esophagus or nasal congestion.
- Chest Pain: non-cardiac chest pain can result from irritation of the acid or pressure caused by a hernia.
- Burping and Bloating: Excessive skipping and a feeling of fullness or bloating are common complaints.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea and vomiting can occur in severe cases, especially with complications.
Severe Symptoms
In some rare cases, A hiatal hernia can cause more serious symptoms, such as:
- Difficulty breathing because the hernia affects the movement of the diaphragm
- Vomiting blood or dark tarry stools may indicate bleeding caused by degenerative esophagitis.
Management of Hiatal Hernia
Effective management of a hiatal hernia focuses on relieving symptoms, prevents complications and improves the quality of life of patients. It may involve lifestyle changes. Medical treatment, in some cases, may include surgery.
Lifestyle Changes
1. Dietary Changes
- Avoid foods that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy, oily, or acidic foods.
- Eat small meals more often to relieve pressure on the stomach.
- Don’t eat close to bedtime to prevent nighttime acid reflux.
2. Weight Control: Losing excess weight can reduce intra-abdominal pressure, relieve symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications.
3. Elevate the Head: Sleeping with your head elevated can help prevent acid from flowing back into your esophagus.
4. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax and makes acid reflux symptoms worse.
Conclusion
Hiatal hernia contributes to the development GERD and erosive esophagitis. Both of which have a significant impact on daily life.
Understanding the causes, observing symptoms, and finding effective management strategies are essential steps.
Individuals can alleviate and improve their quality of life with lifestyle changes and medical intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment remain necessary for effective disease management.
