Hiatal Hernia Treatment
A hiatal hernia happens when the upper part of the stomach protrudes through the small opening in the diaphragm (the muscle that separates the chest and abdominal cavity). Fortunately, at Nova Bariatrics and General Surgery, we offer different treatment options for hiatal hernia in Irving, Arlington, and Paris TX. You can discuss your concerns with Dr. Alibhai and get a personalized plan depending on the severity of your condition.
Causes
The exact cause of hiatal hernia has not been determined yet. It happens when the stomach bulges through the small opening in the diaphragm, called a hiatus. The esophagus passes through this opening to connect to the stomach. If the opening is weakened or large, the stomach may protrude through it, increasing the risk of acid reflux and heartburn.
Some causes that may contribute to the development of this condition include:
- Being born with an abnormally large hiatus
- Injury or trauma to the diaphragm
- Age-related changes in the diaphragm
- Obesity
- Chronic coughing
- Excessive strain on the muscles
- Repetitive vomiting
- Staining during bowel movement
Diagnosis
One of the most frequent symptoms of hiatal hernia is heartburn. In fact, this condition is often discovered during tests and examinations for acid reflux or heartburn. During your evaluation, our doctor will first acquire your medical history. It will include questions regarding the onset, duration, and severity of your symptoms.
To achieve a proper diagnosis of hiatal hernia, we will perform some imaging tests. These may include X-rays and CT scans of the upper abdomen, endoscopy, and esophageal manometry. They help us visualize the extent of the bulge protruding from your diaphragm.
The treatment options for this condition may vary depending on the size and severity of the hernia. People with small hiatal hernia may not experience any symptoms except occasional heartburn or acid reflux. In this case, we will prescribe medications to improve your gut health.
They may include antacids or drugs that reduce acid production in the stomach. We will also recommend certain diet and lifestyle modifications to help you manage these symptoms.
Those who experience severe symptoms or are not helped by medicines may require surgical repair. The surgery for a hiatal hernia involves small incisions through which we will pull the stomach down into the abdominal cavity and repair the opening in the diaphragm.
We may also reconstruct the esophageal valve to prevent acid reflux. Alternatively, this surgery can also be performed through a single incision in the chest.
Schedule An Appointment With Us
If you experience hiatal hernia symptoms such as heartburn or acid reflux, consult our specialists to achieve proper diagnosis and treatment. Contact our team today to request an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, which can cause acid reflux, heartburn, and chest discomfort. Larger or symptomatic hiatal hernias may require surgical repair. Dr. Alibhai specializes in anti-reflux and hiatal hernia surgery in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.
What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?
Common hiatal hernia symptoms include heartburn, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, chest or upper abdominal discomfort, and regurgitation of food or liquid. Many small hiatal hernias cause no symptoms, but persistent reflux should be evaluated. Nova Bariatrics offers specialized surgical treatment for symptomatic cases.
How is a hiatal hernia treated?
Small hiatal hernias are often managed with medication and lifestyle changes, while larger or symptomatic ones may need surgical repair to reposition the stomach and tighten the diaphragm opening. Dr. Alibhai performs minimally invasive hiatal hernia repair, sometimes combined with the LINX reflux procedure for lasting relief.