Hiatus Hernia

Overview

Hiatus Hernia is a condition in which the upper part of the stomach bulges or squeezes through the opening in the diaphragm (large muscle separating chest and abdomen) into the chest. The opening is where the food pipe (esophagus) passes on its way to the stomach.

A small Hiatus Hernia has almost no signs and symptoms and may be discovered accidentally during other workup. However, large hiatus hernia may allow food & acid to go back in esophagus causing Heartburn. Since most people with hiatus hernia do not have any symptoms, they wont need any treatment. However if the hernia is large and if one experience recurrent heartburn, acid reflux or breathing discomfort, treatment may be needed.