Hiatal hernia

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Hiatal hernia

Hiatal hernia repair - series

Hiatal hernia - X-ray

Hernia - hiatal

The goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

Reducing the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux) will relieve pain symptoms. Medications that neutralize stomach acidity, decrease acid production, or strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter may be prescribed.

Other measures to reduce symptoms include:

• Avoiding large or heavy meals
• Not lying down or bending over immediately after a meal
• Reducing weight and not smoking

Failure to control the symptoms by general or medical measures, or the appearance of complications, may require surgical repair of the hernia.

Most symptoms are alleviated with treatment.

• Slow bleeding and iron deficiency anemia (due to a large hernia)
• Pulmonary (lung) aspiration 
• Strangulation (closing off) of the hernia

Call your provider if symptoms indicate you may have developed a hiatal hernia.

Call your provider if you have a hiatal hernia and symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment, or if new symptoms develop.

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.