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Hiatal Hernia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is a hiatal hernia?

A hiatal hernia is a condition that causes part of your stomach to bulge through the hiatus (small opening) in your diaphragm. The part of the stomach may move up and down, or it may get trapped above the diaphragm.

Hiatal Hernia

What increases my risk for a hiatal hernia?

The exact cause of a hiatal hernia is not known. You may have been born with a large or weak hiatus. The following may increase your risk for a hiatal hernia:

What are the types of hiatal hernia?

What are the signs and symptoms of a hiatal hernia?

The most common symptom is heartburn. This usually occurs after meals and spreads to your neck, jaw, or shoulder. You may have no signs or symptoms, or you may have any of the following:

How is a hiatal hernia diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and when they started. Tell your provider about other medical conditions you have, your eating habits, and your activities. You may also need any of the following:

How is a hiatal hernia treated?

Treatment depends on the type of hiatal hernia you have and on your symptoms. You may not need any treatment. Any of the following may be used to treat the hernia or symptoms it causes:

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

How can I manage my symptoms?

The following nutrition and lifestyle changes may be recommended to relieve symptoms of heartburn:

Prevent GERD

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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