Hiatal Hernia Reflux Symptoms

A hiatal hernia is an opening in the diaphragm where the stomach meets the esophagus. Most hiatal hernias don't display symptoms and are so small that people don't even realize they have them unless the doctor accidentally stumbles upon it while looking for another condition. A large hiatal hernia, however, most often occurs with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); the hernia allows food and stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort.

Significance

• Being aware of the symptoms of hiatal hernia reflux will better assist you in treating and controlling the problem.

Reflux

• Also known as GERD, it is the upward movement of the stomach contents into the esophagus. It can cause the acids in your stomach to flow into your mouth, leaving a bitter taste; this can occur with heartburn or by itself.

Heartburn

• This symptom causes an uncomfortable burning sensation and pain behind the breastbone. It might happen after eating, upon lying down or while bending forward.

Additional Symptoms

• Other symptoms of hiatal hernia reflux include nausea, difficulty swallowing as though there is a lump in your throat and a feeling of fullness in the upper abdomen. You may also experience a persistent cough, regurgitation or sore throat, or notice an erosion of the enamel of your teeth because of the acidity.

Considerations

• If you have been diagnosed with a hiatal hernia and find that you are experiencing these symptoms frequently and they are severe, you could be suffering from GERD as well.