Everything You Need to Know About Treatment for Hiatal Hernia

Everything You Need to Know About Treatment for Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia is a condition in which the upper part of the stomach bulges through a hole in the diaphragm. Although it’s common in people over 50 years, anyone can get it. If you’ve been diagnosed with hiatal hernia, you may need treatment, depending on its severity. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about treatment for hiatal hernia.

Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia

The common symptoms of hiatal hernia include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, and belching, among others. When these symptoms occur, they usually worsen when in a reclined position, which makes it hard for patients to have a good night’s sleep. Sometimes, the symptoms may be severe, making it challenging to lead a normal life.

How is Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?

To diagnose hiatal hernia, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination. In some cases, further tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis. These may include an upper endoscopy, barium X-ray, or esophageal manometry test.

Treatment Options for Hiatal Hernia

There are several treatments for hiatal hernia, depending on the severity of symptoms. These include:

Lifestyle Changes

In mild cases, lifestyle modifications may be enough to alleviate symptoms. These may include:

– Losing weight if overweight or obese
– Eating smaller, more frequent meals
– Avoiding trigger foods and drinks such as alcohol, acidic foods, and caffeine
– Raising the head of your bed by six to eight inches to prevent reflux

Medications

If lifestyle changes don’t work, medications may be prescribed. These may include:

– Antacids to neutralize stomach acid
– H2 blockers to reduce acid production
– Proton pump inhibitors to reduce acid production more effectively than H2 blockers

Surgery

In severe cases of hiatal hernia, surgery may be required. The surgical procedure involves pulling the stomach back into its correct position and repairing the diaphragm’s hole. The surgeon may also perform a procedure called a fundoplication to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

Conclusion

In summary, hiatal hernia is a condition that requires prompt medical attention if symptoms manifest. Lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery are the three primary treatment options available. Consulting your healthcare provider is necessary to determine the best course of action. Remember, early intervention can prevent serious complications, so it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible.

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