How to Say It: High-AY-tal HER-nee-uh
A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach pushes through the muscle between the abdomen and chest.
Rarely, a hiatal hernia can get trapped in the chest cavity. This is called strangulation. It needs care right away.
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This problem may be caused by:
Some babies are born with this problem. This is not common.
Hiatal hernias are more common in older adults. Obesity also raises the risk.
Some people do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:
Hiatal hernias are often seen on tests for other health problems. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam may be done.
Images may be taken of the stomach. This can be done with:
Most hiatal hernias do not need treatment. The goal is to manage symptoms. Options are:
People with severe symptoms may need surgery. Surgery may also be needed for a hernia that is cutting off blood flow to the stomach.
There are no known guidelines to prevent this health problem.
American College of Gastroenterology
http://patients.gi.org
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
https://www.niddk.nih.gov
Canadian Institute for Health Information
https://www.cihi.ca
Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca
Acid reflux (GER & GERD) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults. Accessed January 8, 2021.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed January 8, 2021.
Hiatal hernia. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/hiatal-hernia. Accessed January 8, 2021.
Hiatus hernia. Merck Manual Professional Verson website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/hiatus-hernia. Accessed January 8, 2021.
Sfara A, Dumistrascu, D. The management of hiatal hernia: an update on diagnosis and treatment. Med Pharm Rep. 2019;92(4):321-325.
Last reviewed January 8, 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Marcin Chwistek, MD Last Updated: 1/8/2021
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