Complications :
- Repeated reflux of acidity and food particles can cause narrowing of esophagus tube leading to esophageal stricture.
- Long term regurgitation can irritate the epithelial lining present in the esophagus which can cause Barrett’s esophagus which can later cause cancer also.
- In severe cases hiatus hernia can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia.
- Very large hernias can affect the normal respiration and working of the lungs leading to respiratory infection.
Diagnosis :
- Hiatus hernia is often diagnosed while conducting tests for other health issues like abdominal pain and heartburn.
- Barium swallow test is conducted to examine the condition of esophagus and stomach and while doing this test, hiatus hernia can be detected.
- Endoscopy is a procedure in which small thin tube is sent through your mouth and monitored through small lighted camera placed on the other end of the tube. Any abnormality in the stomach and abdominal cavity can be detected in this test.
- Manometry test can also be done to diagnose hiatus hernia during which thin catheter is sent through your nose down through the esophagus and stomach.
Treatment :
In most of the cases of hiatus hernia no treatment is required since there are no symptoms. For heartburn and acid reflux problem, antacids like Mylanta, Tums and Gelusil and other OTC drugs can be taken. Certain medications like Tagamet HB and Axid AR and other H2 receptor blockers are prescribed by the doctor for large hiatus hernia that causes heartburn and regurgitation. Proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole and lansoprazole are also recommended for reducing acid production from the stomach.
- Surgery
Surgical intervention for hiatus hernia is considered only if it is large and causing too many complications. If medications and lifestyle modifications does not provide any relief then surgery is done for treating hiatus hernia. The surgeon would pull the fatty tissue from the esophagus pushing it into the stomach. He would also repair the weakened sphincter muscle. Often laparoscopic method is used and the entire surgery is done through tiny incision aided with camera and monitor.
Home Remedies :
- Avoid taking acidic food items which would increase heartburn and reflux reaction.
- Eat smaller meals many times a day instead of hefty meals.
- Quit smoking and drinking.
- Don’t go to bed after finishing your lunch or dinner since this would aggravate regurgitation.
- Add more pillows below your head and keep it elevated.