In a hiatal hernia (also called hiatus or diaphragmatic hernia), a portion of the stomach penetrates (herniates) through a weakness or tear in the hiatus of the diaphragm, the small opening that allows the esophagus to pass from the neck and chest to its connection with the stomach. Often there are no symptoms, and the condition may not cause any problems. The patient may not be aware they have a hiatal hernia.
Sliding Hiatal Hernia
The term sliding is employed when hiatal hernia involves the lower esophageal sphincter where the esophagus attaches to the stomach. It can also involve a small portion of the stomach. The patient may experience heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux. Because reflux may damage the lining of the esophagus, treatment is essential. Symptoms can usually be managed with medications and behavior modification such as elevating the upper body on a pillow during sleep. Surgery may sometimes be required to correct a sliding esophageal hernia.
In more severe cases of hiatal hernia, the fundus, or upper portion of the stomach, may slide upward into the chest cavity through the hiatus. The condition occurs as an intensifying of a sliding hiatal hernia. In rare cases, the entire stomach and even some of intestines may migrate through the hiatus and rest on top of the diaphragm next to the esophagus, a condition known as giant esophageal hernia.