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What is a hiatus hernia?A hiatus hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm from the abdomen into the chest. The diaphragm is a thin sheet of muscle that is involved in breathing. It separates the abdomen from the chest. Hiatus hernias are common after middle age. They do not often cause problems. How does it occur?The cause of hiatus hernias is not known. What is known is that they occur more often in people after middle age, in overweight people (especially women), and in smokers. What are the symptoms?Many people with a hiatus hernia never have any symptoms. However, in some people, stomach acid and digestive juices move up into the esophagus via the bulge of the stomach through the diaphragm. This is called gastro-esophageal reflux and can cause:
How is it diagnosed?Because many hiatus hernias do not cause symptoms, they are often discovered during an investigation for other conditions. If you have symptoms, your doctor will make the diagnosis from your medical history and a physical examination. Your doctor may order other tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of your symptoms. These tests might include:
How is it treated?Your doctor may recommend a change in your diet. If you are overweight, you may also be given suggestions for losing weight. Your doctor may prescribe medication to buffer the acidity in your esophagus. About 1 in 20 people with hiatus hernia need surgery. How can I take care of myself?
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