Is a hiatal hernia the same as GERD or does it just mimic it?

  • Q: Is a hiatal hernia the same as GERD or does it just mimic it?
  • A: Hiatal hernia is a medical condition where a portion of the stomach protrudes upward through the diaphram. Normally the esophagus (food pipe) passes through the hiatus (the small opening of the diaphram) to connect to the stomach. When the stomach pushes into this opening the result is a hiatal hernia. Oftentimes a small hiatal hernia doesn't cause problems, however a large hiatal hernia can result in acid and food to back up in the esophagus. This can result in heartburn and pain. The symptoms associated with a large hiatal hernia include: heartburn, chest pain, belching and nausea. When treatment is necessary for a hiatal hernia, it is often recommended to eat small meals more frequently, avoid eating for two hours prior to bedtime and stay in an upright position for approximately one hour after eating. If symptoms do not resolve after trying the previous recommendations, then physicians may prescribe medications such as antacids or acid blocking medications. In some cases, patients may require surgery to correct the hernia. GERD is the abbreviation for gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD is a chronic condition caused by the reflux of stomach acid and/or bile into the esophagus. The reflux is due to a weakness or defect in the lower esophageal sphincter. This backwash of acid results in irritation of the esophageal lining. Symptoms that are associated with GERD include the following: heartburn, chest pain, feeling that there is a lump in your throat, having difficulty swallowing, dry cough, sore throat or hoarseness and regurgitating food or sour tasting liquid and persistent nausea and or vomiting. Risk factors for developing GERD include the following: obesity, pregnancy, smoking, hiatal hernia, and esophageal abnormalities. The following foods can worsen the condition: caffeine, spicy foods, acidic fruits and vegetables, mint, chocolate, alcohol, garlic, onions, fatty foods and fried foods. The treatment of GERD involves lifestyle changes such as losing weight if obese, stop smoking, avoiding trigger foods, etc. Antacids and acid blocking medications can also be recommended by physicians. In some cases surgery may be required. Jen Marsico, RPh
This question was answered on October 15, 2010.


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