Hiatal Hernia Symptoms And Treatment

Need to learn about hiatal hernia symptoms and treatment? A hiatal hernia is caused by the stomach pushing through the small opening that leads to the esophagus. Most people don't know that they have a hernia unless its diagnosed by a doctor. Here are some facts about how the condition and its symptoms are diagnosed.

1. Be examined by a physician. Unless you are in pain or discomfort, you probably won't even know about your hernia. Hiatal hernias that are serious often cause heart burn and eating discomfort. This is caused by stomach acid traveling up to your esophagus. You may try to treat the heartburn with antacids, but the symptoms will continue to persist. A doctor will ask you when your symptoms began and if you feel any type of pain. After your initial examination, the doctor will order further testing to be completed.
2. Have a procedure. There a several procedures doctors use to diagnose a hiatal hernia. The doctor may order an x-ray of your upper body or he may complete an endoscopy exam. The endoscopy exam uses a long scope with a camera at the end to look inside your stomach. It is carefully and gently pushed down your throat and into your stomach. The doctor is able to see whether or not you have any hernias.
3. Take your medication. Hiatal hernia treatment requires strong acid blockers to reduce the affects of acid damage. Your stomach hernia needs time to heal and acid prevents this from happening. Acid blockers come in liquid or pill form. Hernias that will not heal with these methods may require surgery to remove the hernia or reconstruct the esophageal opening.

Talk with a physician about your hiatal hernia symptoms. A physician will go over all treatment options available to you. However, changing your eating habits and avoiding things that cause acid build-up can help prevent this condition.