Hiatus Hernia

A hernia is when part of the body bulges or protrudes into another part of the body that would not normally contain it. In the case of a hiatus hernia, a part of the stomach (normally in the abdomen) slides or protrudes into the chest cavity. The chest and abdomen are normally separated by the diaphragm, a thin sheet of muscle that aids in breathing.

Hiatus hernia

When a hiatus hernia occurs (literally a bulge of part of the body through an opening), a portion of the stomach is able to slide upwards through the opeing in the diaphragm, beside the oesophagus, into the chest.

What you can do

If you are getting symptoms and/or pain from a hiatus hernia, there are a number of things you can do to help these. However, always remember if there is any change in your symptoms, or they get worse, you should see your doctor immediately. Do not assume that you have a hiatus hernia based on symptoms alone. Always see your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

• Eat a number of smaller meals rather than 3 larger meals each day. This will help put less pressure on your stomach.
• Do not lie down after eating. Always wait at least 2 hours before lying down. By then, most of your food will have passed into your small intestine and can't flow back into your oesophagus. Avoid having supper if you can.
• Avoid foods and beverages that aggravate symptoms of reflux, such as citrus fruits, alcohol, and caffeine-containing drinks such as tea, coffee and cola.
• Avoid fatty foods, as they relax the sphincter muscle in your lower oesophagus, allowing food to remain in your stomach for longer, which allows more time for acid to reflux into your oesophagus.
• Try to wait a couple of hours after eating before you do any exercise.
• Raise the head of your bed by about 10-15 cm if you can. The effects of gravity will help stop stomach acid from moving into your oesophagus when you're asleep; some doctors advise against using pillows to do this, because they say pillows tend to increase pressure on your abdomen.
• Avoid bending over or stooping, especially after eating. Do not lift very heavy objects that cause you to strain.
• Try not to wear corsets or tight clothing that restricts your chest and stomach.
• If you are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammaory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief and are suffering from heartburn, you may need to change your medication. Certain medications, including NSAIDs, can affect stomach acid secretion. Talk to your doctor if you are unsure.
• Take antacid medications if you need them. Many different brands are available from pharmacies without a prescription.
• Give up smoking! Smoking increases stomach acid reflux.
• Try to avoid stressful situations.
• Losing weight is one of the most important things you can do to reduce the pressure on your stomach and reduce symptoms. If you are overweight, you should discuss with your doctor a safe weight loss plan suitable for you.