Understanding Hiatal Hernia -- Symptoms
What Are the Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia?
The majority of people who have hiatal hernias don't even realize it. Those who do know typically find out when visiting a doctor because of chronic heartburn. Symptoms may include the following:
- Heartburn; regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain radiating from below the breastbone (the sternum)
- A bloated feeling after eating
- Shortness of breath
Understanding Hiatal Hernia -- Prevention
To prevent symptoms of a hiatal hernia: Wear loose clothing. Anything that presses on the stomach can aggravate hiatal hernia symptoms. When your stomach is full, avoid bending over or lying down. This increases abdominal pressure and makes gravity work against you, so heartburn is more likely. Do not bend over or lie down for two to three hours after eating. To prevent hiatal hernia: Maintain a reasonable weight.
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Call Your Doctor About a Hiatal Hernia If:
- Radiating chest pain is not relieved by taking an antacid. You may have angina (the chest pain associated with heart disease), or you may be having a heart attack. Get medical care immediately.
- You are being treated for heartburn or hiatal hernia, and you feel sudden chest or stomach pain, have difficulty swallowing, are vomiting, or are unable to have a bowel movement or pass gas. You may have a hernia that has become obstructed or strangulated, which are emergencies. Seek medical help without delay.
- Your hiatal hernia is accompanied by chronic heartburn. Stomach acid is repeatedly burning your esophagus, which can lead to esophagitis (an inflamed and ulcerated esophagus), esophageal bleeding or scarring, or cancer. See a doctor soon.
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