It is the displacement of the upper part of the stomach through the opening in the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernia usually causes reflux. It can cause chest pain, heartburn and difficulty swallowing. The cause is increased intra-abdominal pressure. Obesity, pregnancy and heavy lifting increase the risk. Diagnosis is made by endoscopy. Treatment can be done with medication or surgery.
What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?
Burning in the chest is the most common symptom. It occurs as a result of stomach acid leaking into the esophagus. It can increase especially after meals, when bending over or lying down. A sour and bitter taste is felt due to the stomach contents coming up to the mouth due to reflux. Hiatal hernia If it causes narrowing in the esophagus, it may be difficult to swallow solid or liquid foods. As a result of the pressure on the stomach and esophagus, pain may be felt in the middle of the chest or in the upper abdomen.
Sometimes it can be confused with heart pain. People who experience this condition often experience complaints such as indigestion, bloating, and frequent burping. stomach hernia In some cases, there may be a narrowing of the stomach outlet, which may manifest itself with nausea and vomiting. As a result of long-term stomach problems, patients may avoid eating. This may also cause weight loss.
What Causes a Hiatal Hernia?
As we age, the diaphragm muscles weaken. This makes it easier for the stomach to slide upwards. It is more common in people over the age of 50. Conditions such as prolonged coughing, heavy lifting, chronic constipation or frequent straining can increase intra-abdominal pressure and cause it. This pressure also increases during pregnancy and can cause temporary stomach hernia It can cause this to happen. Being overweight increases the pressure inside the abdomen. Over time, this pressure puts pressure on the diaphragm, paving the way for a hernia. This risk is quite high in obese people. People with a family history of this condition are at higher risk of developing this condition.
Hernias can also develop in people with genetically weak connective tissue. Smoking negatively affects the function of the muscles in the stomach and esophagus. It can also contribute to hernia formation by weakening the structure of the tissues. Blows to the abdomen or chest area or some surgical operations you have undergone can cause hernias. Interventions performed in areas close to the diaphragm in particular carry risks. Hiatal hernia Sometimes it may not cause any symptoms, but it can cause complaints such as reflux, heartburn, difficulty swallowing. If you have these complaints, it is important to consult a gastroenterologist.
What are the Treatment Methods for Hiatal Hernia?
Avoiding lying down after meals, eating small meals, and avoiding heavy foods can help relieve symptoms. Being overweight can trigger a hernia. Reaching a healthy weight can help relieve pressure and provide relief. Keeping your head slightly elevated at night can help prevent stomach acid from leaking into your esophagus. Antacids are medications used to relieve the effects of stomach acid. These medications reduce acid production and provide a stomach-protective effect.
Proton pump inhibitors reduce stomach acid more effectively and aid healing. PPIs, stomach hernia It is commonly used to control acid reflux due to cases of GERD. H2 blockers are another group of drugs that block acid production. They have a shorter effect than proton pump inhibitors. Laparoscopic fundoplication is commonly used in treatment. The upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus to prevent acid reflux. This procedure is minimally invasive and usually provides rapid recovery.
Gastroesophageal reflux surgery is another surgical approach to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. The problem usually resolves after surgery. Endoscopic treatment is less invasive than surgery. With this method, stomach hernia, can be repaired through endoscopic tools. However, this method may not be applicable to every patient. Oranges, tomatoes and other acidic foods can trigger symptoms. Avoiding these foods may be beneficial. Fibrous foods support digestion and soothe the stomach. Foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains should be preferred. Light and light meals should be preferred.
Fatty foods can further stimulate the stomach and increase acid production. It is a condition that can be related to stress. Stress management techniques, meditation and relaxation exercises can improve symptoms. Natural ingredients such as ginger and chamomile can soothe the stomach. However, herbal treatment methods should be used under the supervision of a doctor. Some patients state that acupuncture is beneficial for stomach problems. The treatment option is determined depending on the patient's age, health history and the type of hernia. The effectiveness of the applied treatment methods may vary from person to person. Therefore, the treatment process should definitely be under the supervision of a doctor.
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