Hiatus Hernia

Overview

Hiatus Hernia

Hiatus hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upward through the diaphragm. It may be associated with acid reflux, chest burning, regurgitation, bloating or swallowing discomfort.

Treatment may include lifestyle measures, medicines and surgery for selected patients with persistent symptoms, large hernia or complications.

Care Highlights

Common Consultation Reasons

• Persistent acidity, chest burning or regurgitation
• Bloating, belching or discomfort after meals
• Difficulty swallowing or food sticking sensation
• Hiatus hernia reported on endoscopy or imaging

Planning

Planning care for hiatus hernia

Hiatus hernia care is planned after understanding reflux severity, hernia size and response to medicines.

• Review of endoscopy, imaging and previous reflux treatment.
• Assessment for alarm symptoms such as swallowing difficulty or weight loss.
• Discussion of lifestyle changes, medicines and surgical indications.
• Preoperative evaluation for patients being considered for repair.

Treatment

Treatment options for hiatus hernia

The plan may range from reflux control to laparoscopic hernia repair and anti-reflux surgery in suitable cases.

• Diet timing, weight management and reflux precautions may be advised.
• Medicines can help control acid-related symptoms in many patients.
• Laparoscopic repair may be considered for selected persistent or large hernias.
• Procedure choice is based on reports, symptoms and surgical fitness.

Recovery

Recovery and follow-up

Recovery guidance is tailored to the operation, diagnosis and overall health. The care plan includes medicines, diet, activity, wound care and follow-up instructions.

• Diet is advanced step by step after surgery when performed.
• Small frequent meals may be advised during early recovery.
• Follow-up checks swallowing comfort, reflux control and wound healing.
• Severe chest pain, persistent vomiting or inability to swallow needs urgent review.