A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition can cause symptoms like acid reflux, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. At Emirates Hospitals, patients receive expert care from a multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists and general surgeons. The hospital provides advanced diagnostic tools and a wide range of treatment options, including minimally invasive surgeries, to ensure optimal outcomes.
Understanding Hiatal Hernia
Hiatal hernias are categorized into two main types:
- Sliding Hiatal Hernia: The stomach and lower esophagus slide up into the chest cavity.
- Paraoesophageal Hiatal Hernia: Part of the stomach pushes alongside the esophagus and can lead to more serious complications.
Causes and Risk Factors
Factors that may contribute to hiatal hernias include:
- Increased Abdominal Pressure: Caused by obesity, pregnancy, or chronic coughing.
- Age: The risk increases with age due to weakening of the diaphragm.
- Injury: Trauma or previous surgeries in the chest or abdominal area.
- Genetics: Family history may play a role.
Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia
While some people experience no symptoms, others may have:
- Heartburn and Acid Reflux: Especially after meals or when lying down.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): A sensation of food getting stuck.
- Chest Pain: Often mistaken for cardiac issues.
- Belching and Regurgitation: Due to acid or food backing up into the throat.
Diagnosis at Emirates Hospitals
- Endoscopy: Direct visualization of the esophagus and stomach.
- Barium Swallow Test: X-ray imaging to detect hernia size and location.
- Manometry: Measures the strength and function of the esophageal muscles.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition:
- Lifestyle Changes: Weight management, dietary modifications, and avoiding triggers like alcohol or caffeine.
- Medications:
- Antacids: Relieve mild heartburn.
- PPIs and H2 Blockers: Reduce acid production to manage symptoms.
- Surgical Interventions:
- Laparoscopic Fundoplication: The top of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to reinforce the diaphragm opening.
- Paraoesophageal Hernia Repair: Minimally invasive surgery to reposition the stomach and repair the diaphragm.
Frequently Asked Questions
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, potentially causing symptoms like acid reflux.
It is diagnosed using tests like endoscopy, barium swallow X-rays, and manometry to evaluate the esophagus and stomach.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications to manage acid reflux, and in severe cases, minimally invasive surgical repair.
Emirates Hospitals provides expert general surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and a patient-focused approach for effective diagnosis and treatment of hiatal hernias.
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