Common Questions About Hiatal Hernia

It is estimated that 40% of Americans over 40 have a hiatal hernia. Many people with hiatal hernias are unaware they even have this condition, for some, this condition can cause a great deal of discomfort.

What is a hiatal hernia?
The esophageal opening into the stomach is called the hiatus and is controlled by esophageal muscles and by the diaphragm. If the tissue around the hiatus becomes weak, stomach acid may back-up into the esophagus and cause inflammation. In many cases, the weakened hiatus allows part of the upper stomach to protrude into the chest and this condition is called a hiatal hernia.

What causes Hiatal hernias?

There are many reasons why people get hiatal hernias, many of these causes comes with the natural progression of aging. The other principal cause is over weight and obesity. Other causes of hiatal hernias can include:

  • Eating too much and too often (have a full stomach all the time)
  • Consuming the wrong foods such as foods with high fatty content.
  • Anxiety, stress and depression because it interferes with normal digestion.
  • Coughing
  • Vomiting
  • Bending forward
  • Lifting heavy objects continuously
  • Physical exertion or straining when having bowel movements
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Alcohol consumption

What are the symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia?

The primary symptom of hiatal hernias is heart-burn and acid reflux. Other symptoms can include:

  • Burning sensations in the chest
  • Regurgitation of sour or bitter tasting fluid into the throat & mouth
  • Regurgitation that occurs when lying down/sleeping
  • Belching
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Fullness in the stomach

What can I do to help with the symptoms?

There are a variety of things you can do to help alleviate the discomfort that is associated with a hiatal hernia. Suggestions can include:

  • Change your eating habits. Eat low-fat foods. Avoid caffeine, fried foods, chocolate, carbonated beverages, and spicy foods. Pay close attention to the kinds of food that cause distress in your stomach and stop eating them.
  • Do not drink alcohol.
  • Stop smoking. Tobacco irritates the stomach and esophageal lining.
  • Drink Chamomile tea frequently. It is an excellent stomach soother.
  • Do breathing exercises along with other relaxation techniques and movement.
  • Put more fiber in your diet
  • Wear loose clothing
  • Avoid bending forward as it can increase pressure in the abdomen.
  • Sleep with head elevated at least 6-8 inches
  • Do not lay down after eating
  • Use of digestive enzymes such as papaya tablets after meals.
  • The homeopathic tablets Nux Vomica taken on the first signs of heartburn can be very effective.
  • Seek counseling. Many people with hiatal hernias have high stress, unresolved issues, nervousness, tension and depression.
  • If you HAVE to use an antacid avoid those containing aluminum.

Hiatal hernias are not life threatening and some people may require medical attention for severe symptoms.

By Tyler Woods Ph.D. 2005