Hiatal Hernia Treatment Specialist in Melville, NY

There are different types of hiatal hernias, each with distinct characteristics. Below are the key types:

1. Sliding Hiatal Hernia (Type I)

• Most Common Type: Accounts for about 95% of all hiatal hernias.

• Stomach and Esophagus Movement: The stomach and lower esophagus slide up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.

• Symptoms: Often asymptomatic, but can cause acid reflux (GERD), heartburn, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing.

• Shifts in Position: The hernia may shift in and out of the chest with position changes.

2. Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia (Type II)

• Less Common but More Dangerous: Accounts for a smaller percentage of cases but poses a higher risk of complications.

• Stomach Displacement: Part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and sits next to the esophagus, forming a pouch.

• No Esophageal Movement: The esophagus remains in its normal position.

• Symptoms: Includes chest pain, bloating, difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation.

• Complications: Can lead to strangulation, where the blood supply to the stomach is cut off, requiring urgent surgery.

3. Mixed Hiatal Hernia

• Combination of Both Types: A rare occurrence where a person experiences a mixture of sliding and paraesophageal hernias.

• Symptoms: May involve a combination of symptoms from both types, depending on the hernia’s size and severity.

Treatment for all types typically involves lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery, depending on the severity and complications.

A hiatal hernia can cause acid reflux. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. A hiatal hernia can contribute to acid reflux by affecting the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the valve that normally prevents acid from flowing backward into the esophagus.

How a Hiatal Hernia Causes Acid Reflux:

1. Displacement of the LES

In a sliding hiatal hernia, part of the stomach and lower esophagus slide upward into the chest cavity. This displacement weakens or relaxes the LES, making it less effective at keeping stomach acid in the stomach. As a result, acid can escape into the esophagus, causing reflux.

2. Increased Pressure on the Stomach

The hernia can cause increased pressure on the stomach, which may force acid upward. This pressure is often exacerbated by eating large meals, lying down after meals, or being overweight, all of which can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

3. Disrupted Esophageal Function

The abnormal position of the stomach in a hiatal hernia may disrupt the normal functioning of the esophagus, making it less effective at clearing acid from the esophagus. This prolongs the exposure of the esophagus to acid, contributing to irritation and inflammation.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux Caused by Hiatal Hernia:

• Heartburn or chest pain
• Regurgitation of food or acid
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bloating or a sensation of fullness

If you experience frequent acid reflux or related symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medications, or, in severe cases, surgery.

A hiatal hernia is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Medical History and Symptoms Review

The doctor will first ask about symptoms, such as heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or regurgitation. They may also inquire about lifestyle factors like diet, weight, and habits that could contribute to a hiatal hernia.

2. Physical Examination

During the physical exam, the doctor may check for signs of discomfort or pain, particularly in the upper abdomen or chest. However, a physical exam alone is not sufficient to diagnose a hiatal hernia.

3. Imaging Tests

• Barium Swallow (X-ray): One of the most common diagnostic tests, where the patient swallows a barium solution that coats the esophagus and stomach. X-rays are then taken to detect any abnormalities or the presence of a hernia.

• Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to visualize the esophagus and stomach. This helps the doctor look for signs of a hiatal hernia, acid reflux, or damage to the esophagus.

4. Esophageal Manometry

This test measures the function of the esophagus and LES to determine how well it is functioning, which can help in diagnosing a hiatal hernia.

If a hiatal hernia is suspected, these tests allow doctors to confirm the diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

A hiatal hernia may cause a range of symptoms, though some people may experience no symptoms at all. The severity of symptoms varies depending on the size of the hernia and the degree of discomfort.

Common symptoms include:

• Heartburn or Acid Reflux: A burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid moving into the esophagus is a common symptom of a hiatal hernia.

• Regurgitation: The sensation of food or acid coming back up into the throat or mouth, especially after eating.

• Chest Pain: Often mistaken for heart-related pain, this can result from acid reflux or irritation caused by the hernia.

• Difficulty Swallowing: Some people experience trouble swallowing, a sensation that food is stuck in the throat or chest.

• Bloating or Fullness: A feeling of fullness, bloating, or pressure in the upper abdomen, particularly after meals.

• Frequent Burping: Air or gas escaping from the stomach can cause burping, often occurring in people with a hiatal hernia.

• Nausea: In some cases, people may experience nausea or even vomiting, especially when the hernia is causing more significant reflux or discomfort.

If any of these symptoms occur regularly or worsen over time, it’s important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 150 Broadhollow Rd, Suite 120-B, Melville, NY 11747. We serve patients from Melville NY, Brentwood NY, Farmingdale NY, Huntington NY, Commack NY, Lindenhurst NY and the surrounding areas.