Hiatal Hernia Treatment in Mesa, Chandler, & Gilbert, AZ

Name: AZ Gastro Care
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A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes through an opening in the diaphragm, entering the chest cavity. While some people experience no symptoms, others develop persistent acid reflux, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, a hiatal hernia can worsen digestive issues and contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). At AZ Gastro Care, we specialize in diagnosing and managing hiatal hernias, offering personalized treatment options to alleviate discomfort and improve digestive health.

Understanding Hiatal Hernias

Hiatal hernias are more common than many people realize—up to 60% of adults over age 60 may develop one. The diaphragm, a muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen, contains a small opening called the hiatus, through which the esophagus passes to connect with the stomach. When the stomach protrudes through this opening, a hiatal hernia forms, which can lead to acid reflux and digestive discomfort.

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What Causes a Hiatal Hernia?

Although the exact cause of hiatal hernias is not always clear, several factors may contribute to their development:

Increased abdominal pressure from obesity, pregnancy, chronic coughing, or frequent straining during bowel movements.
Aging-related muscle weakening that makes it easier for the stomach to push through the diaphragm.
Injury or trauma to the abdominal area, which can disrupt the diaphragm’s structure.
Congenital factors, where some individuals are born with a naturally larger hiatus.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

Many people with a small hiatal hernia experience no symptoms. However, larger hernias can lead to chronic acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, and digestive discomfort.

Common symptoms include:

Frequent heartburn, especially after meals or when lying down.
Regurgitation of food or stomach acid, leading to a sour or bitter taste.
Bloating and belching, often accompanied by discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Chest pain or pressure, sometimes mistaken for cardiac issues.
A feeling of fullness even after eating small meals.
Shortness of breath, particularly if the hernia is large enough to affect lung function.

Because hiatal hernias can contribute to GERD, many patients experience acid reflux-related symptoms such as chronic coughing, hoarseness, or throat irritation.

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How Is a Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?

At AZ Gastro Care, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of a hiatal hernia and determine its severity. Common tests include:

Barium Swallow Study – A special X-ray that tracks a swallowed contrast solution through the digestive tract, highlighting abnormalities.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD) – A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus and stomach to identify hernias, inflammation, or damage from acid reflux.
Esophageal Manometry – Measures esophageal muscle function and pressure levels to assess swallowing difficulties.

An accurate diagnosis helps determine the most appropriate treatment plan for symptom relief and long-term management.

Treatment Options for a Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia treatment depends on symptom severity and whether GERD is present. Many cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications, while severe cases may require surgical intervention.

Lifestyle & Dietary Adjustments

Eating smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach pressure.
Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, caffeine, and alcohol.
Not lying down immediately after eating to minimize acid reflux.
Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure.
Quitting smoking, as tobacco weakens the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing acid reflux.

Medications to Manage Symptoms

If a hiatal hernia is causing acid reflux, medications may be recommended, such as:

Antacids to neutralize stomach acid.
H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid production.
Prokinetic agents to improve esophageal motility and prevent reflux.

Surgical Repair for Hiatal Hernias

In cases where lifestyle changes and medications do not provide relief, or if the hernia is large, surgery may be necessary. The most common minimally invasive surgical procedure for hiatal hernias is:

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication – The stomach is repositioned below the diaphragm, and the opening in the diaphragm is tightened to prevent future herniation. This procedure is minimally invasive, leading to faster recovery times and reduced postoperative discomfort.

Why Choose AZ Gastro Care for Hiatal Hernia Treatment?

At AZ Gastro Care, we are committed to providing expert care with a personalized approach. Our team offers:

State-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately assess hiatal hernias and related conditions.
Comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plans tailored to your individual symptoms.
Advanced, minimally invasive surgical options when needed for long-term relief.
Ongoing support and guidance to help patients manage GERD and other digestive concerns.

If you are experiencing chronic heartburn, acid reflux, or difficulty swallowing, a hiatal hernia may be the cause. Schedule a consultation with AZ Gastro Care today to explore your treatment options and take control of your digestive health.