What Does a Hiatal Hernia Feel Like
Do you know what a hiatal hernia is? If not, don’t worry; you are not alone. A lot of people have never heard of this condition before. Hiatal hernias are fairly common, but many people don’t know they have them because they don’t experience any symptoms or they don’t know what a hiatal hernia feels like. In this blog post, we will discuss hiatal hernias—what they are, how to identify them, and the treatment options available.
So, What Exactly Is a Hiatal Hernia?
First, let’s talk about what a hiatal hernia, also known as a hiatus hernia, is. A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of your stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. The diaphragm is a sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. When someone has a hiatal hernia, their diaphragm doesn’t work as well as it should because there is extra tissue pushing down on it. This can cause problems with breathing and digestion. A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, potentially leading to a noticeable stomach bulge.
What Are Hiatal Hernia Symptoms?
Most people who have hiatal hernias don’t experience any symptoms. A sliding hiatal hernia, the most common type, occurs when the stomach and lower part of the esophagus slide up into the chest through the diaphragm, often without noticeable symptoms. If you do experience hiatal hernia symptoms, they may include heartburn, acid reflux, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Hiatal hernia pain can also manifest as chest discomfort, especially after meals. A paraesophageal hernia, where part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus, can lead to complications such as strangulation, necessitating surgical intervention. In severe cases, a hiatal hernia can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and even aspiration pneumonia. In short, what it feels like to have a hiatal hernia can vary widely and may mimic symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease due to stomach acid entering the esophagus.
Can You Live With a Hiatal Hernia?
Most people who have hiatal hernias can live normal lives without any problems. However, it is important to note that hiatal hernias eventually return in some cases, particularly after surgical treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to see a doctor and get treatment. Left untreated, some hiatal hernias can lead to more serious health complications. It is important that you have the full picture before you decide if you just want to live with the condition or not. A rolling hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach rolls into the chest cavity, may require more urgent attention.
What Are the Treatment Options for a Hiatal Hernia?
There are several treatment options available for hiatal hernias. The process of diagnosis of hiatal hernia typically involves a physical exam, discussing medical history and symptoms, and may include tests to confirm the condition. The most common treatments are medications—such as antacids or acid blockers—surgery or lifestyle changes like losing weight or avoiding certain foods. Hiatal hernia surgery, including techniques like laparoscopic surgery, is considered when other methods fail to alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and acid reflux. Hiatal hernia repair may be necessary for more severe cases to prevent complications. Your doctor will help you figure out which option is best for you. Paraesophageal hiatal hernias, where part of the stomach protrudes through the hiatus, may require urgent surgical intervention to prevent complications. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away so that the problem can be addressed and doesn’t get worse.
Conclusion
We hope this blog has been informative and has expanded your understanding of hiatal hernias. If you have lingering questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out for more personalized advice.
For those seeking hiatal hernia repair near Baltimore, our team at Ascension Saint Agnes Bariatric Surgery is here to assist you. We specialize in providing comprehensive care and effective solutions tailored to your needs. Don’t hesitate to explore your options with us. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you on your journey to better health!
Read up on the diet after hernia surgery.
FAQs About Hiatal Hernias
What are the warning signs of a hiatal hernia?
Warning signs can include persistent heartburn, acid reflux, and chest pain. If you experience these symptoms frequently, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional.
Can you physically feel a hiatal hernia?
While you may not feel the hernia itself, you might notice symptoms like a bulge in the upper abdomen or discomfort after eating, which can indicate its presence.
What can be mistaken for a hiatal hernia?
Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers can mimic hiatal hernia symptoms, making accurate diagnosis essential for proper treatment.