Common Types of Hernias
Hiatal Hernia
A Reference hiatal hernia Opens New Window (say "hi-AY-tul HER-nee-uh") is different from other types of hernias, because it involves the stomach instead of the intestine. It occurs when part of your stomach bulges up through your diaphragm and into your chest. The Reference diaphragm Opens New Window is a sheet of muscle that separates your belly from your chest. You can't feel a hiatal hernia or see a bulge.
Most people with a hiatal hernia have no symptoms. But one symptom you may have is Reference heartburn Opens New Window. If you often have symptoms, or if they are very bad, you may also have Reference gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Opens New Window. A hiatal hernia can lead to GERD. It's common to have both problems at the same time.
If you don't have symptoms, you don't need treatment. But if your symptoms bother you, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes or medicines. For more information, see the topic Reference Hiatal Hernia.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference November 15, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Kenneth Bark, MD - Surgery, Colon and Rectal |
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