Hiatal Hernia Treatment in New Jersey
Most people have difficulty swallowing from time to time, but a consistent problem can indicate something more serious. A hiatal hernia is a common cause of persistent difficulty with swallowing. Patients in northern New Jersey should turn to the board-certified medical professionals at Bergen Medical Associates if they believe they may be suffering from a hiatal hernia. Learn more about how gastroenterology specialists can help diagnose and treat this lesser-known condition.
What Is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia involves the stomach and the diaphragm, occurring when the upper part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into the chest. The name comes from the hiatus, which is a small opening within the diaphragm that helps during the swallowing process. The hiatus connects the esophagus to the stomach. Small hiatal hernias may not impact your life, but larger ones can cause various health and lifestyle problems.
There are two main types of these hernias. Type 1, called a sliding hernia, is the most common, accounting for nearly 95% of all hiatal hernia cases. With sliding hernias, part of the esophagus connecting to the stomach moves upward through the widened hiatus and then back down.
The other main type is the paraesophageal hiatal hernia, which has several variations. With the Type 2 paraesophageal hiatal hernia (also known as a rolling hiatal hernia), the upper area of the stomach is pressed through the hiatus to sit beside the esophagus.
What Are the Signs of a Hiatal Hernia?
Like many gastroenterology conditions, hiatal hernias can cause a number of different complications. Some hiatal hernia symptoms include:
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Indigestion
- Burping and regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing (also known as dysphagia)
- Pain in the chest or abdomen
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Feeling full soon after eating
- Vomiting blood
- Passing black stools
While a hiatal hernia may not always lead to serious health problems, if left unaddressed, it could lead to chronic acid reflux. This condition may also result in chronic inflammation, which can cause ulcers, internal bleeding, narrowing of the esophagus, and Barrett’s esophagus, which can be precancerous.
What Causes a Hiatal Hernia?
The direct cause of a hiatal hernia is that the muscle tissue surrounding your stomach is weakened. This allows the stomach to bulge up and into your diaphragm. The reasons for this weakening can vary, which is why it is important to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis.
One potential cause is that, as we age, our muscle tissue begins to weaken. Daily stressors on our bodies can create this problem over time. Another common cause is injury or surgery performed on the area. Some people were even born with an especially large hiatus, which can lead to these complications down the road.
Lastly, those who put consistent pressure and strain on these muscles are more likely to be at risk. This includes those who partake in intense exercise, often lift heavy items, suffer from chronic coughing or sneezing, are obese, or are pregnant.
How Is a Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed and Treated?
Hiatal hernias are usually found during testing related to heartburn or chest pain. These tests may include esophageal pH tests, X-rays, esophagrams, endoscopies, or esophageal manometries. Because hernias don’t go away on their own, if one is found, it will need to be treated.
At Bergen Medical Associates, we’re happy to offer hiatal hernia treatment options to get our patients feeling great again. Our board-certified gastroenterologists have the experience needed to provide you with answers. If your hiatal hernia is causing issues, our team will offer personalized care to find a solution. Treatment options may include recommending medications such as antacids, H-2-receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. When necessary, surgery may be another option.
Why Choose Bergen Medical Associates?
At Bergen Medical Associates, we treat a wide range of specialties under one umbrella for your convenience. For over 25 years, Bergen Medical Associates/Bergen Gastroenterology has been one of New Jersey’s leaders in comprehensive care for all gastrointestinal diseases and disorders.
If you have difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or a hiatal hernia, you can trust our board-certified physicians and gastroenterologists to provide expert care. We provide a full range of gastrointestinal diagnostic services and offer several treatment options to help you feel better.
Find Hiatal Hernia Treatment Near You in New Jersey at Bergen Medical Associates
Many people live each day with a hiatal hernia and don’t even know it. However, for those who are struggling with these symptoms, you can find help at Bergen Medical Associates. Our staff provides the best care possible, as we specialize in helping patients throughout northern New Jersey overcome their issues with acid reflux, Barrett’s esophagus, and other conditions. If you’re interested in seeing one of our doctors, request an appointment near you or contact us today. We have locations in Emerson, Montvale, Northvale, Paramus, and Ridgewood, NJ, making it easy to find treatment near you.
