Hernia

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Hiatal hernia is the name given to a defect that allows a portion of the stomach to pass through the opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm and slip into the chest. There are three types of hiatal hernias. In persons with a sliding hiatal hernia, a small portion of the stomach slides into and out of place. With a paraesophageal rolling hernia, a portion of the stomach protrudes up and out of the diaphragm and remains there, beside the esophagus. Some people have mixed hernias, which include features of both.

Sliding hernias are much more common than the esophageal type, and in many cases cause no symptoms at all. If there are symptoms, they generally include a feeling of fullness in the chest, a sensation similar to angina pain and pain resulting from spasms in the chest. If the symptoms are severe, they can be mistaken for those of a heart attack. Most sliding hernias are a result of muscle weakness that often accompanies aging. This condition is more common n women than n men, and the incidence rises with age.

Acid reflux is the most common complaint associated with esophageal hernias. This occurs when a backup of stomach acid enters the esophagus, causing pain n the lower part of the esophagus and heartburn, or burning sensation in the chest and upper abdomen. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for those of a heart attack in progress. It should be noted, however, that not all people who suffer from acid reflux have hiatal hernias, and not all people with hiatal hernias are troubled by acid reflux.

Regardless of the type of hernia, symptoms can occur anywhere from one to four hours after eating. Heartburn, burping, regurgitation of acid into the throat, vomiting, pain, and muscle spasms in the chest may all be experienced to some degree. Symptoms tend to be worse if you have overeaten or are bending or stooping, and are usually much worse when you lay down.

Hiatal hernias are very common, especially among older people who are overweight. It is estimated that almost half of all people over forty years of age have them. Themselves do not consider hiatal hernias considered dangerous. However, continuing acid reflux can lead to inflammation, even ulceration, of the esophagus, and should be treated. If your symptoms are severe, tests may be recommended to make sure your esophagus is healthy, to measure the buildup of acid, and to check on the extent of a hiatal hernia.

General Recommendations

Prevention

Because weakened muscles are a primary cause of hiatal hernia, exercises such as sit-ups, which strengthen the upper chest and abdominal muscles, may help prevent this condition.

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