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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Alternative Names Return to top
Hernia - hiatalDefinition Return to top
Hiatal hernia is a condition in which a portion of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest, through an opening in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. It is used in breathing.
Causes Return to top
The cause is unknown, but hiatal hernias may be the result of a weakening of the supporting tissue. Increasing age, obesity, and smoking are known risk factors in adults.
Children with this condition are usually born with it (congenital). It is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux in infants.
Hiatal hernias are very common, especially in people over 50 years old. This condition may cause reflux (backflow) of gastric acid from the stomach into the esophagus.
Symptoms Return to top
A hiatal hernia by itself rarely causes symptoms -- pain and discomfort are usually due to the reflux of gastric acid, air, or bile. Reflux happens more easily when there is a hiatal hernia, though a hiatal hernia is not the only cause of reflux.
Exams and Tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
The goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Reducing the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux) will relieve pain. Medications that neutralize stomach acidity, decrease acid production, or strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle that prevents acid from backing up into the esphagus) may be prescribed.
Other measures to reduce symptoms include:
If these measures failure to control the symptoms, or complications appear, surgical repair of the hernia may be necessary.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Most symptoms are alleviated with treatment.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your provider if symptoms indicate you may have developed a hiatal hernia.
Call your provider if you have a hiatal hernia and symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.
Prevention Return to top
Controlling risk factors such as obesity may help prevent hiatal hernia.
References Return to top
Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier: 2008. Update Date: 3/8/2008 Updated by: Christian Stone, MD, Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
