A Hiatal Hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. The diaphragm, a muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest, has a small opening (hiatus) through which the esophagus passes. In a hiatal hernia, the stomach can bulge through this opening, leading to potential symptoms like acid reflux or heartburn. There are two main types of hiatal hernias. Sliding hiatal hernia: This is the more common type, where the stomach and a portion of the esophagus slide up into the chest. It often leads to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms and Paraesophageal hernia: This type is less common but more concerning. The stomach pushes up next to the esophagus and can lead to a "strangulated" hernia, which cuts off blood flow and may require emergency treatment.
There are two main types of hiatal hernias. Sliding hiatal hernia: This is the more common type, where the stomach and a portion of the esophagus slide up into the chest. It often leads to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms and Paraesophageal hernia: This type is less common but more concerning.
The stomach pushes up next to the esophagus and can lead to a "strangulated" hernia, which cuts off blood flow and may require emergency treatment.