Role of Hiatal Hernia
in Gastroesophageal reflux disease?
Some doctors think that a hiatal hernia may weaken the lower
esophageal sphincter and raise the risk for gastroesophageal reflux. Hiatal
hernia occurs as the upper part of the stomach moves up into the chest through
a small opening in the diaphragm (diaphragmatic hiatus). The diaphragm is the
muscle differentiated the abdomen from the chest. Recent studies show that the
opening in the diaphragm helps support the lower end of the esophagus. Many
people with a hiatal hernia will not have problems with heartburn or reflux.
But having a hiatal hernia may permit stomach contents to reflux more easily
into the esophagus.
Coughing, vomiting, straining, or sudden physical exertion
can cause raised pressure in the abdomen resulting in hiatal hernia. Obesity
and pregnancy also rise to this condition.
Hiatal hernias usually do not require treatment. However,
treatment may be necessary if the hernia is in danger of becoming strangulated
(twisted in a way that cuts off blood supply) or is complicated by severe Gastroesophageal
reflux disease or esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus). The doctor may execute
surgery to reduce the size of the hernia or to prevent strangulation.
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