Hiatal hernia and acid reflux are two conditions that affect millions of people around the world. While they are often seen as separate conditions, there is a significant link between hiatal hernia and acid reflux. Understanding this connection is important for managing symptoms and getting the relief you need.
What is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. This can cause discomfort and lead to a variety of symptoms, including acid reflux. Hiatal hernias are classified into two types: sliding and paraoesophageal.
Sliding hiatal hernias
Sliding hiatal hernias are the most common type of hiatal hernia. In this type of hernia, the entire stomach and a portion of the lower esophagus slide into the chest through the opening in the diaphragm.
Paraoesophageal hiatal hernias
Paraoesophageal hiatal hernias are less common but more serious. In this type of hernia, the stomach is pushed up into the chest, but the lower esophagus remains in its normal position. These hernias can lead to more severe symptoms and complications, including difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and the risk of strangulation, which occurs when the blood supply to the herniated portion of the stomach is cut off.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up the esophagus and irritates the lining. This is a common condition that affects many people, especially after eating a large meal or lying down after eating.
What is the Link between Hiatal Hernia and Acid Reflux?
The link between hiatal hernia and acid reflux is that the hernia can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and allow stomach acid to travel back up into the esophagus. The LES is a ring of muscle that acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach, preventing stomach acid from traveling back up. When the LES is weakened, it can’t close properly, leading to symptoms of acid reflux.
What are the Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia and Acid Reflux?
The symptoms of hiatal hernia and acid reflux are similar and can include:
- Heartburn Regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
How are Hiatal Hernia and Acid Reflux Diagnosed and Treated?
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms to diagnose hiatal hernia and acid reflux. They may also order tests, such as an upper endoscopy, to get a better look at the inside of your esophagus and stomach.
Treatment options for hiatal hernia and acid reflux include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, and prescription medications. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the hiatal hernia and strengthen the LES. There are also alternative treatments available, like The Reflux Revolution.
This is a comprehensive course and includes two powerful meditation sessions that activate the body’s inner healing mechanism. It’s a very safe and predictable method to heal hiatal hernia and acid reflux from the inside out, without using medication.
Frequently Asked Question
Q: What is a hiatal hernia?
A: A hiatal hernia is a condition that occurs when a portion of the stomach bulges through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity.
Q: What is the link between hiatal hernia and acid reflux?
A: The link between hiatal hernia and acid reflux is that the hernia can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to travel back up into the esophagus.
Q: What are the symptoms of hiatal hernia and acid reflux?
A: The symptoms of hiatal hernia and acid reflux include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, sour taste in the mouth, and hoarseness or sore throat.
Q: How are hiatal hernia and acid reflux diagnosed and treated?
A: Your doctor will diagnose hiatal hernia and acid reflux through a physical exam and by asking about your symptoms. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, prescription medications, and in severe cases, surgery. There is also an alternative treatment, which is called The Reflux Revolution. In addition, lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding foods that trigger symptoms, and avoiding lying down immediately after eating can help manage the symptoms of hiatal hernia and acid reflux.
Conclusion
Understanding the link between hiatal hernia and acid reflux is important for managing your symptoms and getting the relief you need. By working with your doctor, you can develop a treatment plan that is right for you and help prevent long-term damage to your esophagus. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the symptoms of hiatal hernia and acid reflux.
Source
Free Reflux Revolution ebook
Hi! I’m Michel Lejeune, int. ABH/ABNLP Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist.
