Hiatal Hernia: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Hiatal Hernia is a condition wherein an individual’s stomach tends to bulge from their Diaphragm. Since the Hernia occurs in the opening known as Hiatus, the condition is called Hiatal Hernia. Paraesophageal and Sliding are the two main types of this Hernia. The condition’s symptoms differ according to the type of Hiatal Hernia you might be suffering from. Treatment is also needed accordingly.
The symptoms of Hiatal Hernia may vary, from chest pain, bloating, and burping, to trouble swallowing. In other cases, you may also experience bad taste, shortness of breath, and heartburn. If you face these symptoms, it is important to consult a medical expert on time.
Here are more details on this condition to help you raise awareness of it.
A Brief Of Hiatal Hernia
Any individual suffering from a Sliding Hernia may experience a bulge in their stomach and esophagus up to their chest. It happens via their diaphragm. General cases of Hernia fall under this category. However, with people suffering from Paraesophageal Hernia, both the stomach and Esophagus are in their natural position. However, a portion of the stomach tends to squeeze via the Hiatus. Eventually, it settles near the Esophagus, which tends to be even more harmful to the patient.
To differentiate between which type of Hernia you may have, the doctor will run a thorough diagnosis and identify the symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia.
Causes Of Hiatal Hernia
Although health experts are still trying to identify why Hiatal Hernia occurs, here are some of the most common causes of the same.
- Injury to the Hiatus area
- Any change in the Diaphragm as you grow older.
- A massive Hiatal opening since birth that is not normal
- A sudden growth in the belly that is not due to pregnancy or Obesity.
What Is The Diagnosis For Hiatal Hernia?
During the diagnosis of a Hiatal Hernia, the doctor conducts a few tests. These tests help identify the type of Hernia, its severity, and the condition of the symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia.
1. Endoscopy
A long tube called an Endoscope might be inserted into your throat. It is thin and helps identify the condition inside your stomach and esophagus. It has a camera attached to it that makes the internal organ visible to the doctor for examination.
2. pH Test
This test works well for checking the acidity levels in the esophagus. As such, the severity of your symptoms of Hiatal Hernia is put to the test with it.
3. Barium Swallow
It is a form of liquid that you have to consume. Once you drink this, the doctor can view your Esophagus and stomach more clearly during an X-ray.
4. Pressure Study
An Esophageal Manometry is a test that uses a tube inserted into the individual’s throat. It helps to examine the Esophagus. As such, this diagnosis can help the doctor learn more about your Hiatal Hernia. So, the doctor will use this form of diagnosis as required.
What Are The Treatments Of Hiatal Hernia?
Generally, Hiatal Hernia can be cured on its own. However, the doctor may recommend certain medications to help you get rid of the remaining symptoms. If you are suffering from a Paraesophageal Hernia, the doctor may recommend surgery for an immediate cure. You will need to consult the doctor and follow the prescribed treatment to keep the symptoms of Hiatal Hernia under control.
If you think you are suffering from the symptoms of Hiatal Hernia, consult your doctor without delay.