When a part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity, the condition is called a stomach hernia, also known as a hiatal hernia. This disorder may cause discomfort, symptoms such as acid reflux, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing, and can interfere with the regular operation of the digestive system. This article discusses different types of hiatal hernias, including sliding hiatal hernias and paraesophageal hiatal hernias, and their characteristics.

Symptoms of stomach hernia
The symptoms of stomach hernia can range from mild to severe; however, people with the condition may not have any symptoms at all. That said, typical signs of a stomach hernia can include the following:

Heartburn
Commonly known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it is a typical sign of a stomach hernia. This happens when stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus, causing pain and irritation.
Chest discomfort
Chest discomfort brought on by a stomach hernia might make some people think they have a heart attack. The discomfort may be subtle or intense and aggravated by lying down or eating.
Dysphagia
Often known as trouble swallowing, it is when a stomach hernia impairs the esophagus’ ability to operate normally. The person may feel uncomfortable as a result and may not be able to eat or drink as they typically would.
Regurgitation
This condition appears when food or stomach acid flows back into the mouth due to a stomach hernia. This could make you feel bad and give you a bad taste.
Queasiness
Some people with stomach hernias may feel queasy or sick to their stomach, especially after eating or after lying down.

Types of stomach hernia
The muscles and tissues surrounding the diaphragm can become weak or injured, opening the door for the stomach to protrude into the chest cavity and cause a stomach hernia. The two most common types of stomach hernia are:

A part of the stomach in the top and the lower part of the esophagus can protrude through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity, leading to sliding hiatal hernia. A sliding hiatal hernia is usually associated with gastroesophageal reflux.
When an area of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and is next to the esophagus, it is known as a paraesophageal hernia. Although less frequent, paraesophageal hernia can be more serious since it might impair the blood supply to the stomach.

Causes of stomach hernia
Although the specific causes of stomach hernia are not entirely understood, several variables, such as the following, may contribute to its occurrence:

Diaphragm muscular weakness brought on by old age or trauma.
Increased abdominal pressure brought on by conditions including weight, pregnancy, or frequently lifting large goods.
Straining or coughing frequently while passing stool.
Congenital or genetic causes could alter the diaphragm’s structure.

Treatments for a stomach hernia
While professional intervention may be necessary in some cases, several remedies can help alleviate symptoms associated with the condition, so here are treatments for stomach hernia:

Lifestyle changes
Modifying your way of living in some ways can help you manage the symptoms of a herniated stomach. A few examples are avoiding large meals, sleeping with your head raised, avoiding lying down right after eating, and avoiding foods that trigger symptoms (including hot or fatty foods).
Prescription treatments
A doctor may give antacids or prescription treatments to lessen the production of stomach acid and relieve the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn linked to stomach hernia.
Meal plan changes
A GERD-friendly meal plan, which may include staying away from fatty, acidic, or spicy foods, might help lessen the frequency and intensity of symptoms brought on by stomach hernias.
Endoscopic techniques
Minimally invasive techniques may occasionally fix the hernia and stop the stomach from moving into the chest cavity. The muscles and tissues surrounding the diaphragm may need to be strengthened using sutures or other methods.
Surgery
Surgery may be advised in severe cases or when other therapies are ineffective in repairing the hernia and returning the stomach to its natural position. Depending on the specific circumstances, open or laparoscopic surgery may be required.

As the management strategy may differ depending on the severity of the problem and other health concerns, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional to identify the best course of action for someone with a stomach hernia.

To sum up
A stomach hernia may result in nausea, heartburn, chest pain, trouble swallowing, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. Surgery, endoscopic procedures, prescription treatments, changes in meal plan, and lifestyle adjustments are typical management strategies for the condition. The therapy method, however, may change based on the seriousness of the ailment and the presence of additional disorders.