Dr. Mercola: Hiatal Hernia: A Potentially Dangerous Digestive Condition

Introduction to Hiatal Hernia: A Potentially Dangerous Digestive Condition

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    This condition can occur in anyone, from unborn children to those who are approaching middle and senior age. Its symptoms should not be ignored, because they can be very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous in the long run
    Hiatal hernia usually occurs in people ages 50 and above, and to those who are overweight or obese

A hernia is a condition where an organ pushes through an opening that a certain muscle holds in place. There are four different hernias that typically occur in the human body:1

• Inguinal Hernia

This occurs when intestines push through the inguinal canal, a tubular passage found near the groin area. It helps hold up the testicles in men, and the uterus in women.

• Umbilical Hernia

When the intestines pass through the abdominal wall, a bulge near the belly button occurs. Children younger than 6 months old are the largest demographic of this condition, although it usually goes away when they’re a year old.

• Incisional Hernia

This type of hernia can emerge because of a recent abdominal surgery. The intestines may push through the incision scar, or the weakened tissue surrounding it.

• Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia occurs when a part of your stomach protrudes upward through the hiatus, which is an opening in your diaphragm.

This guide will focus on hiatal hernia. This condition can occur in anyone, from unborn children to those who are approaching middle and senior age. Its symptoms should not be ignored, because they can be very uncomfortable and potentially dangerous in the long run.2,3
The Causes of Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia usually occurs in people ages 50 and above, and to those who are overweight or obese. Its exact causes are unknown, but there are a few theories, such as:4

• Injury or trauma: A strong blow to the central chest area can rupture your digestive organs, causing the diaphragm to loosen and allow the stomach to go up.

• Birth defect: It’s possible that some people are born with a large hiatus, which will need to be addressed to prevent the hernia from worsening.

• Constant pressure: Certain actions that steadily exert pressure on your chest such as vomiting, coughing and straining while removing bowels can cause hiatal hernia.
Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia to Watch Out For

Most of the time, hiatal hernias are minor and asymptomatic, and you can live a full life without needing medical treatment at all. However, those who do develop complications typically display symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD).5 It is a condition where stomach acid rises to your esophagus, causing symptoms such as:6,7

• Heartburn: An uncomfortable, burning feeling in the chest that usually occurs after eating due to the stomach acid climbing up the esophagus.

• Sour taste: There’s a chance the stomach acid can reach the back of your tongue, causing you to experience a very sour taste.

• Pain: You may have difficulty swallowing food, or you may feel that there’s something stuck in your throat. Sore throat may develop as well.8
Learn All About Hiatal Hernia in This Guide

Even if your hiatal hernia is asymptomatic, there’s still a chance you can develop complications if you don’t follow certain preventive measures. This guide will show you massages, dietary practices and other methods to help you deal with hiatal hernia.

MORE ABOUT HIATAL HERNIA

Hiatal Hernia: Introduction
   

What Is Hiatal Hernia?
   

Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

Hiatal Hernia Causes
   

Hiatal Hernia Types
   

Hiatal Hernia Treatment

Hiatal Hernia Surgery
   

Hiatal Hernia Prevention
   

Hiatal Hernia Diet

Hiatal Hernia FAQ
       

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What Is Hiatal Hernia?
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