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The diaphragm is the muscular wall that separates the chest from the abdomen. The hiatus is a small muscular collar in the diaphragm, through which the oesophagus, or swallowing tube, passes to connect the mouth to the stomach. A hiatus hernia occurs when the top part of the stomach protrudes through the muscular collar and into the chest. It is very common and may exist in more than 40 percent of the population. Many cases even go unnoticed.
If the muscular collar is too large or relaxes, a sliding hiatus hernia may occur. Obesity, pregnancy, tight clothing, and movement like bending, coughing, or straining can create the pressure that causes the sliding. Often there are no symptoms or only a sense of heartburn or fullness in the chest after eating. For people who experience heartburn and belching symptoms, an additional problem exists that is called gastroesophageal reflux. This is the backflow of acid contents of the stomach into the oesophagus. These symptoms may develop after a meal, or at night. Dietary changes can often relieve the backflow symptoms completely. Eat small, frequent meals and avoid the following foods: - fatty foods
- beverages with caffeine such as coffee, or cola
- alcohol
- tomato products and
- citrus juices
A test called an upper GI series is used to diagnose a hiatus hernia. This exam combines a barium drink with an x-ray exam of the oesophagus, stomach, and small intestine. An endoscopy is a common test done by passing a narrow, flexible tube from the mouth to have a direct look at the lining of the oesophagus and the stomach and duodenum. The results of these tests help your doctor determine the best treatment. Article #4417 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
