A stomach (or hiatal) hernia causes the upper part of the organ to bulge through the large muscle separating the chest and abdomen. A minor hernia may not cause any symptoms, so it is usually detected during a checkup or when undergoing screening for other health conditions. On the other hand, a large stomach hernia can cause acid and food to flow back into the esophagus resulting in heartburn and other symptoms requiring treatment.

Symptoms
Diaphragm has a minute opening through which the food pipe passes before connecting to the stomach. However, with a hiatal hernia, the stomach pushes into the chest through the diaphragm opening. Most people with a stomach hernia do not experience symptoms. However, the condition may cause the following symptoms:

– Bloating
– Heartburn due to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
– Burping
– Chest pain
– Unpleasant taste in the mouth
– Vomiting
– An upset stomach
– Trouble swallowing
– Shortness of breath
– Fluid or food flowing back into the esophagus

Additionally, one must seek immediate medical attention if they experience signs like issues with bowel movement, vomiting, persistent upset stomach, and severe pain in the belly or chest. One may also experience strangulation or obstruction that can block blood flow to the stomach, making it a medical emergency

Causes and risk factors
The precise cause of a hiatal hernia is not yet known. However, an injury or any other damage might weaken the muscle tissue in the region, allowing the stomach to push through the diaphragm. Another risk factor could be excessive pressure on the muscles around the stomach as a result of vomiting, coughing, lifting heavy objects, or exerting excessive strain during bowel movements. Certain people are born with an unusually large hiatus, which facilitates the movement of the stomach through this opening. As one gets older, the risk of developing a stomach hernia increases. One can lower the risk of a hernia by:

– Seeking assistance while lifting heavy objects
– Not straining during bowel movements
– Avoiding certain abdominal exercises or wearing tight belts

Treatments
The two common treatment options for hiatal hernia are:

Prescription treatment: Doctors may recommend prescription treatment to relieve GERD and lower the acidity in the stomach. In addition, certain treatment options can help create a barrier-like gel in the stomach to prevent acid reflux. If one is experiencing persistent discomfort, the doctor may prescribe stronger treatment options.

Surgery: Chronic or severe reflux issues might call for surgery, especially when prescription treatments and lifestyle changes do not work. So, one may have to undergo laparoscopic repair, where a small tube with a camera is inserted into the belly, helping the doctor examine and treat the hernia. It is a 90-minute surgery that repositions the stomach and tightens the diaphragm around the esophagus, preventing further bulging. As the surgical procedures for repairing hernia are usually laparoscopic, they are minimally invasive treatment options.

While a hiatal hernia may not always result in major discomfort, surgery is essential if the hernia is large enough to disrupt the blood supply. One should discuss the risks and outcomes of each treatment option with a doctor before making a decision.