What is a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves up through the diaphragmatic hiatus into the chest cavity. Small sliding hiatal hernias are extremely common; larger paraesophageal hernias can be more serious.
Common symptoms
- Heartburn and acid reflux
- Regurgitation
- Chest discomfort, especially after meals
- Difficulty swallowing
- Shortness of breath with large hernias
Risk factors
- Age over 50
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Chronic increased intra-abdominal pressure
Typical treatment
Most small hiatal hernias are managed medically with acid-suppression therapy and lifestyle changes. Larger paraesophageal hernias, severe reflux unresponsive to medication, or hernias with anatomic complications may warrant surgical repair.
Other hernia types
- Inguinal Hernia — Tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall into the groin or inguinal canal.
- Femoral Hernia — Tissue pushes into the femoral canal, below the inguinal ligament near the upper thigh.
- Umbilical Hernia — Tissue pushes through the abdominal wall at or near the belly button.
- Ventral Hernia — Any hernia along the midline of the abdomen, outside the umbilical or groin regions.
- Incisional Hernia — Hernia that develops through the scar of a previous surgical incision.
- Recurrent Hernia — A hernia that returns at the site of a previous hernia repair.
Educational disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual recommendations require consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.