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Have you ever experienced a burning sensation in your chest, especially after eating a heavy meal? This discomfort could be a sign of a hiatal hernia, a condition where part of your stomach bulges through the diaphragm, the muscle separating your chest from your abdomen. This blog delves into the world of hiatal hernia, exploring its causes, symptoms, and various treatment options to help you achieve a heartburn-free life. We have also included inputs shared by our expert gastrointestinal surgeon in Gurugram that can help you manage the symptoms.
Synopsis
What is a Hiatal Hernia?
The diaphragm plays a crucial role in separating your chest cavity, containing your heart and lungs, from your abdominal cavity, which houses your stomach and intestines. Normally, there's a small opening in the diaphragm called the hiatus, allowing the oesophagus (food pipe) to pass through. In a hiatal hernia, the tissues surrounding the hiatus weaken, allowing part of the stomach to push through into the chest cavity.
Types of Hiatal Hernia
There are two main hiatal hernia types :
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Sliding Hiatal Hernia: This is the most common type, occurring when the upper part of the stomach slides through the hiatus.
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Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia: Less common, this type occurs when part of the stomach herniates alongside the oesophagus through the hiatus.
Causes of Hiatal Hernia
Several factors can contribute to a hiatal hernia. Here are some major hiatal hernia causes.
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Increased pressure on the abdomen: This can be caused by obesity, pregnancy, heavy lifting, or persistent coughing.
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Age-related weakening of tissues: As we age, the tissues surrounding the hiatus can weaken, making them more prone to herniation.
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Congenital factors: In some cases, a hiatal hernia can be present from birth due to a weakness in the diaphragm.
Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia
Many people with hiatal hernias experience no symptoms at all. However, when hiatal hernia symptoms do occur, they can be quite uncomfortable and include:
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Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest, often worse after eating or lying down.
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Acid reflux: Stomach acid backs up into the oesophagus, causing a sour taste in the mouth and irritation.
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Chest pain: This pain can be sharp or burning and can mimic heart attack symptoms. (Note: If you experience chest pain, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention to rule out heart problems.)
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Regurgitation: The feeling of food or stomach acid coming back up into the throat or mouth.
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Difficulty swallowing: In some cases, a large hiatal hernia can make it difficult to swallow food.
Consult our general surgeon in Gurugram if you experiencing the above hiatal hernia symptoms.
Complications of Hiatal Hernia
Left untreated, a hiatal hernia can lead to complications like:
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Esophagitis: Inflammation of the oesophagus due to chronic acid exposure.
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Oesophagal stricture: Scarring of the oesophagus that narrows the passage of food.
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Barrett's oesophagus: A precancerous condition that can develop in the lining of the oesophagus due to chronic acid reflux.
Diagnosing Hiatal Hernia
Doctors typically diagnose hiatal hernia with one or more of the following tests:
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Upper endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the oesophagus and stomach to visualize the hernia.
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Barium swallow: An X-ray is taken after you drink a chalky liquid that coats the inside of your digestive tract, allowing the doctor to see the outline of your oesophagus and stomach and identify any herniation.
Treatment Options for Hiatal Hernia
Treatment for hiatal hernia depends on the severity of your symptoms. Here's a look at some common approaches:
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Lifestyle modifications: Losing weight, avoiding trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty), and eating smaller meals more frequently can significantly reduce symptoms.
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Medications: Over-the-counter antacids or prescription medications can help neutralize stomach acid and alleviate heartburn.
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Laparoscopic surgery: In severe cases, surgery might be necessary to repair the hiatal hernia and reinforce the diaphragm muscle.
Consult our general surgery hospital in Gurugram if you need hiatal hernia treatment.
Living a Heartburn-Free Life with Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernia is a common condition, and with proper management, you can experience significant relief from heartburn and other symptoms. Remember, early diagnosis and lifestyle modifications can go a long way in preventing complications. If you experience persistent heartburn or other concerning symptoms, consult our gastrointestinal expert in Gurugram to determine the best course of treatment for a healthier and more comfortable life.
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