Hiatus Hernia: The Hidden Condition Affecting Millions!
Published: Oct 18, 2023
Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on October 18th, 2023.
Hiatus hernia is a common condition that can cause discomfort and digestive issues. Let's explore what it is and how it affects the body.
Contents
Understanding Hiatus Hernia
A hiatus hernia occurs when parts of the stomach push through the diaphragm into the chest. It's classified into sliding and paraesophageal types, with the former being more common. While sliding hernias often go unnoticed, paraesophageal hernias can cause more noticeable symptoms and complications.
The Role of Anatomy
The esophagogastric junction (EGJ) is crucial in preventing reflux, functioning like a valve between the esophagus and stomach. In hiatus hernia, this valve's effectiveness is compromised. This change can lead to symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), impacting the quality of life for many sufferers.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Most people with a sliding hernia have no symptoms, but larger hernias can cause heartburn and regurgitation. Diagnosis usually happens during tests for other conditions, using methods like endoscopy or barium swallow tests to visualize the hernia.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's when the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest.
It's very common, especially the sliding type.
Look out for heartburn, regurgitation, and swallowing difficulties.
Through endoscopy, barium swallow, or manometry tests.
Key Takeaways
Understanding hiatus hernia can help manage symptoms and improve health outcomes.
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References
Kahrilas PJ, Wu S, Lin S, Pouderoux P. Attenuation of esophageal shortening during peristalsis with hiatus hernia. Gastroenterology 1995; 109:1818.
Kwiatek MA, Pandolfino JE, Kahrilas PJ. 3D-high resolution manometry of the esophagogastric junction. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2011; 23:e461.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.