Hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach moves towards the thorax and leaves this anatomical barrier that separates it from the esophagus ineffective. This causes the gastric contents to easily pass into the esophagus and, therefore, the annoying gastroesophageal reflux occurs. This is a protrusion with a special incidence among those over 50 years of age, but it can occur among people of any age in good health with a greater or lesser degree of severity.
Dietary factors that favor gastroesophageal reflux may influence the development of this condition, such as excessive consumption of fats, coffee, alcoholic beverages, chocolate, and pepper or other spices. Situations that are associated with an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, such as obesity or pregnancy, and some types of physical exercise can also favor the appearance of a hiatal hernia.
One of the most common symptoms is burning or burning that rises from the stomach to the throat. This phenomenon, called heartburn in the medical field, is associated with the passage of acidic or bitter foods from the stomach to the mouth. The burning worsens after meals and is usually linked to excesses and the consumption of foods that promote relaxation of the sphincter. This symptom can noticeably affect those who suffer from hiatal hernia, especially during night rest or when flexing the trunk.
Breathing can also be affected by hiatal hernia. Hoarseness and throat clearing are quite common due to the irritation in the larynx caused by gastroesophageal reflux. Asthma or breathing difficulties due to acid aspiration are other notable symptoms.
Although the treatment of hiatal hernia may vary depending on its severity, there are a series of recommendations common to all patients. According to the University of Navarra Clinic, these are the measures that must be implemented to guarantee symptom control:
The medical specialist will only prescribe pharmacological treatment when these measures are not effective enough. In any case, these guidelines should be complementary to medication.
