Understanding Hiatal Hernia: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Prevention

A hiatal hernia is a common condition that affects the digestive system, often going unnoticed until symptoms start interfering with daily life. It occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Although hiatal hernias can vary in severity, understanding their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures can help you manage this condition effectively.What Is a Hiatal Hernia?The diaphragm is a thin, dome-shaped muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. It plays a crucial role in breathing and has a small opening called the hiatus, through which the esophagus passes before connecting to the stomach. A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach bulges up through this opening and into the chest.There are two main types of hiatal hernias:Sliding Hiatal Hernia: The most common type, where the stomach and a portion of the esophagus slide up into the chest through the hiatus. This type is often associated with gastroeso...