Are Hiatal Hernias Dangerous?

Hiatal hernias are common in people over the age of 50. In fact, according to the Esophageal Cancer Awareness Association, hiatal hernias will affect up to 60 percent of people by the time they’re 60 years old. Hiatal hernias can be completely innocuous, but, in some cases, can pose a danger to your health. In this article we will discuss hiatal hernias and when they become dangerous.

What is a hiatal hernia?

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach pushes up through an opening in your diaphragm called the hiatus and into your chest. The diaphragm is a large muscle located between the abdomen and chest that helps you breathe. Your stomach should be located below the diaphragm, but with a hiatal hernia, a portion of the stomach pushes through.

Types of Hiatal Hernias

Sliding hiatal hernia

This is the most common type of hiatal hernia. Sliding hiatal hernias occur when your stomach and esophagus slide into and out of your chest through the hiatus. A sliding hernia won’t usually cause any symptoms and might not require any form of treatment – in fact, most people with this type of hernia don’t even know that they have one unless it’s discovered while receiving treatment or testing for another issue.  

Fixed hiatal hernia

 Another, less common type of hiatal hernia is known as a fixed or paraesophageal hernia. With this type of hiatal hernia, part of your stomach pushes through your diaphragm and remains there. Fixed hernias are usually larger than sliding hernias, which can cause them to pose more of a risk to your health. Most cases are not serious; however, there is the risk that this could cut off blood flow to the stomach. This can cause serious damage and sometimes results in a medical emergency. 

Are hiatal hernias dangerous? 

In short, they can be, depending on which type you have. As mentioned, sliding hiatal hernias often don’t present symptoms or need treatment. Fixed hiatal hernias, however, can be dangerous. There is also a connection between hiatal hernias and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). While this isn’t necessarily considered a medical emergency, it can impact your overall health and quality of life long term. GERD is incredibly common in patients with hiatal hernias, but thankfully both issues can be addressed with the same surgical treatment.

Symptoms of Hiatal Hernias

As mentioned, hiatal hernias do not always present symptoms, however if they do, here are a few common symptoms of hiatal hernias:

• Acid reflux

• Heartburn

• Sour taste in the mouth

• Bloating

• Stomach pain

If you believe you may be suffering from a hiatal hernia and need a hernia doctor in Tampa, call the reflux specialists at Tampa Bay Reflux Center today to discuss treatment options for your hiatal hernia.