Hiatal Hernia
Description
Part of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest, through an opening in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle separating the chest from the abdomen and is used for breathing. The hiatal hernia can allow acid to enter the esophagus causing pain and ulceration of the esophagus.
Symptoms
Chest pain, pain with swallowing, belching, heartburn.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. An EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), or CT scan can all establish the diagnosis.
- CT Scan
Treatment
Treatment includes: proton pump inhibitors (omperazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix), H2 blockers (cimetidine/Tagamet, ranitidine/Zantac), and antacids. It is recommended to avoid eating just prior to laying down to sleep, and raising the head of the bed to prevent acid from entering the esophagus. Surgery is performed for persistent and severe cases.
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