Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis and Treatment – Agrawal Gastrocare Center Indore

What is Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia occurs when a hole develops in the muscle that separates your chest from your abdomen the diaphragm. This ailment is also known as a hiatus hernia because of the name of the opening.

Although it can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender, a hiatal hernia most frequently affects people in their 50s and older. Smokers and those who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop a hiatal hernia.

Diagnosis of Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia can be identified with the use of several tests. These include barium swallow tests, endoscopies, esophageal manometric studies, pH tests, etc.

• To see issues with the oesophagus and stomach, an X-ray is taken after swallowing a specific liquid during a barium swallow. Additionally, it reveals the size of the hiatal hernia as well as whether the hernia has caused any stomach twisting.
• An endoscopy is a process in which an endoscope is used to inspect the interior of the upper digestive system.
• Esophageal manometry tests the efficiency with which your oesophagus moves its muscles during swallowing.
• The pH test determines the amount of acid in the esophagus.

Treatment of Hiatal Hernia

Most Hiatal hernias are not harmful and hardly ever require treatment. However, since some people who have hiatal hernias also have GERD symptoms, treatment begins with GERD management techniques. Your doctor might give you some medicines to lessen the impact of your symptoms.

• Doctors may prescribe some medicines to lessen the impact caused by symptoms.
• Surgery may be necessary for a hiatal hernia. Surgery is often reserved for patients who have issues including severe inflammation or esophageal constriction or who have not found relief with heartburn and acid reflux drugs.

Change Lifestyle Includes:

• Keeping your weight at a healthy level.
• Avoiding specific foods with acid.
• Limiting intake of fried and fatty meals and beverages.
• Avoiding late-night snacks and having a meal at least three to four hours prior going to sleep.
• Taking medications as directed.
• Don’t smoke.

Dr. Amit Agarwal
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Agarwal Gastrocare Center Indore