Hernia in the diaphragm occurs when a portion of organs or tissues from the abdomen moves through an opening in the diaphragm into the chest, resulting in a bulge in the chest or abdomen area. Individuals with hiatal hernia may experience various symptoms, including bloating, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. The hernia can be painful and typically requires surgical intervention for treatment. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of hiatal hernia, covering causes, risk factors, potential symptoms, and available treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical.
What is Hiatal Hernia?
The stomach is located below the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle layer that separates the organs in the chest from those in the abdomen. The esophagus, the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach, passes through an opening in the diaphragm.
It occurs when part of the stomach moves up into the chest area, the stomach is pushed through this opening.
There are two types:
- Sliding Hernia: Occurs when the upper part of the stomach and the lower part of the esophagus are squeezed upward into the space above the diaphragm. This is the most common type.
- Paraesophageal or Rolling Hernia: Occurs when the upper part of the stomach is squeezed upward into the space above the diaphragm. This is less common but can be serious if the stomach twists on itself, causing stomach bleeding or difficulty breathing.
What are the Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia?
Hiatal hernia itself does not cause symptoms. However, in some cases, it can lead to the leakage of stomach acid into the esophagus, known as acid reflux. This may cause symptoms such as:
- Chest burning sensation
- Burning sensation in the throat or an acidic taste in the throat
- Pain in the stomach or chest
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarseness or throat inflammation
- Unexplained cough
How is Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?
Patients discover their hiatal hernia when undergoing X-ray or endoscopic examinations. This test involves passing a tube equipped with a small camera through the throat.
What is the Hiatal Hernia Treatment?
Individuals experiencing symptoms due to the hernia receive treatment for the associated symptoms. Symptomatic treatment involves taking medications used for acid reflux. Those with paraesophageal or sliding hernias may need surgical treatment for hiatal hernia.
During surgery, the surgeon pulls the stomach back down and repairs the hole in the diaphragm. This prevents the stomach from sliding up again.
Best Surgeon for Surgical Treatment of Hiatal Hernia
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie is the best doctor for the surgical treatment of hiatal hernia. He is a liver and digestive system consultant and endoscopy specialist, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in England, and a member of the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie is currently a lecturer in internal medicine, liver diseases, and the digestive system at Al-Azhar University in Cairo.
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie participates regularly in various local and international scientific conferences and has numerous scientific research publications in prestigious medical journals.
Book your appointment now if you would like to consult with Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie regarding hiatal hernia, including diagnosis and treatment using the latest techniques.