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Haitus Hernia

Causes, prevention and symptom reduction

Elaine Godley

Last Update a year ago

What is a Haitus Hernia?

Key facts
  • A hiatus hernia is when a part of the stomach pushes up through a gap in your diaphragm, moving into the space in your chest.
  • Symptoms can include heartburn, chest pain and shortness of breath — but many people have no symptoms.
  • Risk factors for developing a hiatus hernia include living with obesity and heavy lifting.
  • Treatment options may include medicines, lifestyle changes and surgery, if symptoms are severe.
  • See your doctor if your symptoms are getting worse, over-the-counter medicines aren't helping or you are vomiting frequently.


What are the symptoms of a hiatus hernia?

Many people with a hiatus hernia have no symptoms.


A hiatus hernia can cause food and acid to move from the stomach back up the oesophagus. This is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD), ‘reflux’ or heartburn.


Other symptoms of hiatus hernia may include:


Source:- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/



Hiatal hernias can be caused by various factors, although the exact cause is not always clear. The main causes and risk factors include:


1. Age-related changes to the diaphragm, particularly in people over 50 years old[1][5][6]


2. Increased intra-abdominal pressure due to obesity, pregnancy, chronic constipation, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)[5][6]


3. Muscle weakness affecting the abdomen or diaphragm[6]


4. Congenital anatomical defects, such as being born with a larger hiatal opening[1][6]


5. Trauma or injury to the abdomen or esophagus[5][11]


6. Previous abdominal surgeries[5][11]


7. Genetics[5]


Regarding reversibility, hiatal hernias are not always curable, but symptoms can often be controlled with treatment[12]. In some cases, surgical intervention may reverse the condition.


Medical Solutions


1. Medications:

- Antacids to address symptoms[1] - H-2 receptor blockers to reduce acid production[1] - Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to block acid production and allow the esophagus to heal[1][3]


2. Surgery:

- Laparoscopic fundoplication (Nissen or Toupet) is the standard procedure for both sliding and paraesophageal hernias


[3] - Surgery may be recommended if medications are ineffective or if there are complications[8]



Natural Solutions


1. Lifestyle changes: - Weight loss for obese individuals[10] 


 - Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities[10] - Quitting smoking[10] - Eating a balanced, nutritious diet[10]


2. Herbal remedies: - 

Marshmallow root to form a protective layer in the esophagus[4][9]

Slippery elm to coat the esophagus and reduce irritation[4]


3. Aloe vera juice: - Drinking before meals or at bedtime to alleviate discomfort and promote healing in the esophagus[4][9]


4. Apple cider vinegar: - Diluting 1-2 tablespoons in water and consuming before meals[9]


5. The warm water method:


 - Drinking warm water in the morning, followed by specific arm movements and breathing exercises[10]


It's important to note that while these natural remedies may provide relief, they should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially in conjunction with any prescribed medical treatments.


Citations:

[1] https://www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/gastroenterology-colorectal-surgery/hiatus-hernia-hiatal-hernia

[2] https://teachmesurgery.com/general/gastric/hiatus-hernia/

[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6853045/

[4] https://surgeonadamharris.com/effective-home-remedies-for-hiatal-hernias/

[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562200/

[6] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hiatus-hernia

[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26210719/

[8] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373385

[9] https://surgeonadamharris.com/top-10-natural-remedies-for-hiatal-hernia-treatment/

[10] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-fix-a-hiatal-hernia-yourself

[11] https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/digestive-gut-health/hiatus-hernia

[12] https://hospitalcmq.com/blog/hiatal-hernia/

[13] https://www.msdmanuals.com/home/digestive-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/hiatus-hernia

[14] https://www.drvpareek.com/hiatus-hernia-diagnosis-and-[15]https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8098-hiatal-326E


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