Can you fix a hiatal hernia yourself? Managing symptoms
Below is an article on the topic Can you fix a hiatal hernia yourself? Managing symptoms compiled by the editors of Gootoplist.com. Gootoplist - a general information page about useful tips for life
A hiatal hernia happens when a section of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. Hiatal hernias do not always cause symptoms, but some people may experience heartburn as acid moves up from their stomach.
There are two types of hiatal hernias: sliding and paraesophageal (or rolling). More than 80% of hiatal hernias are sliding, which means that parts of the stomach and esophagus move in and out of the chest area.
About 5–15% of hiatal hernias are rolling hernias. These happen when part of the stomach pushes up through the hole in the diaphragm next to the esophagus.
This article will explain whether it is possible for people to treat a hiatal hernia by themselves. It will also explain what might happen if a person does not seek medical treatment.
It is not possible for a person to make a hiatal hernia go away without medical care. However, hiatal hernias do not require treatment if they are not causing a person to experience symptoms.
If the hernia is asymptomatic and not causing any complications, the person may need to use a method that doctors call watchful waiting. This approach involves closely monitoring any symptoms as and when they occur.
Asymptomatic hiatal hernias become symptomatic and require reparative procedures at a rate of
However, a person can take steps to manage the symptoms of a hiatal hernia or help prevent it from reoccurring in the future.
A person should contact a medical professional before making any behavioral changes or trying any over-the-counter medications, including those that this article mentions.
The symptoms of a hiatal hernia may temporarily subside without treatment, especially if a person has a sliding hiatal hernia.
However, people with paraesophageal hiatal hernias are at risk of developing a complication known as a strangulated hernia. This complication occurs when the blood supply to the hernia becomes cut off, and it can lead to sepsis or even death.
The only treatment that can get rid of a paraesophageal hernia is surgery.
Therefore, anyone who suspects that they have a hernia should seek medical attention rather than trying to remedy it at home.
People with hiatal hernias may experience symptoms of gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD) because of acid rising from their intestines. The
Acid reflux can cause long-term damage to the esophagus, which has no protection against stomach acid. Therefore, it is important to treat symptoms instead of trying to live with them, even if they feel manageable.
Some diet-related tips that can help reduce gastric acid secretion
Learn more about what to eat with a hiatal hernia here.
A person may find that adjusting their posture and exercise routine can help relieve symptoms of a hiatal hernia.
For example, they should avoid lifting anything heavy and doing any activities that strain their abdominal muscles.
However, low impact exercises that do not strain the stomach, such as swimming and walking, may be beneficial for a person with a hiatal hernia.
Learn about exercises for people with a hiatal hernia here.
A person can amend their habits and behaviors in other ways to manage the symptoms of a hiatal hernia.
For instance, they can try:
If lifestyle adjustments prove ineffective, a person can discuss medication options with a doctor.
A person may wish to try using OTC medications to alleviate acid reflux that has occurred due to a hiatal hernia.
Antacids, such as Gaviscon or Tums, may help alleviate GERD symptoms. These can interact with other medications, so it is important to seek the advice of a pharmacist or another medical professional before taking them.
A doctor
H2RAs block histamine, which is responsible for causing some cells in the stomach to create additional acid. Examples include:
PPIs are a common treatment option for people with GERD. The duration of the treatment plan
PPIs block an enzyme necessary for acid secretion and include:
The authors of a
Surgery may be laparoscopic, meaning that it uses small incisions and cameras to carry out the procedure. It will involve moving the portion of the stomach that has protruded through the diaphragm back to its correct position. The surgeon may also tighten the hiatal opening to prevent the hernia from reoccurring.
Learn more about surgery for hiatal hernias here.
A person should seek medical attention for a hiatal hernia if their symptoms become unmanageable or do not resolve after a few weeks.
They can also speak with a medical professional if they are looking to try new treatment methods to ease the symptoms of a hernia.
A strangulated hernia is a medical emergency, so it is important to get immediate medical care if a person with a hernia has any of the following symptoms:
It is not possible to fix a hiatal hernia at home, but a person can take steps to minimize and treat existing symptoms and to prevent the hernia from recurring.
These may include lifestyle changes, such as modifying the diet and starting a suitable exercise regimen, and OTC medications.
It is important to discuss any changes with a healthcare professional before implementing them.
Last medically reviewed on June 28, 2021
8 sourcescollapsed
There are a variety of medicines available for the treatment of acid reflux. Learn more about the prescription and OTC medicines available here.
Acid reflux can be very uncomfortable. Learn how to help reduce the unpleasant symptoms, including during pregnancy, and how to prevent it here.
There are many different types of hernia. Find out here what they look like, what they feel like, and when a person should contact a doctor to get…
Hernias occur when a weakness in the muscular wall of the abdomen allows organs and tissues to push through. Hernias usually occur in the groin…
Fundoplication is a surgical procedure that can help treat some gastrointestinal conditions, including acid reflux and hiatal hernias. Learn more.
OUR BRANDS
Above is the article Can you fix a hiatal hernia yourself? Managing symptoms shared by Gootoplist team. Next, I also write an article related to this article to synthesize the knowledge about how to fix a hiatal hernia yourself Hope to bring you useful information, thank you for your interest and follow. track!
