Hiatal Hernia Complications
Within your chest cavity is a separation between your abdomen and diaphragm. Through the diaphragm is a small opening known as the hiatus. Your esophagus goes through your stomach by way of the hiatus. A hiatal hernia is an abnormality in which part of your upper stomach protrudes into the opening of your diaphragm where the esophagus meets your stomach. In many instances a hiatal hernia may never be a cause of concern. However, if a hiatal hernia becomes large, complications can arise.
GERD
One complication you be may faced with is GERD. Gastroesophageal reflux disease can be the result of a large hiatal hernia. At the bottom of your esophagus is a band of muscle known as the esophageal sphincter. When you swallow foods or liquids, your diaphragm and lower esophageal sphincter relax themselves to allow food and liquids to pass by. When you don't swallow, your diaphragm will apply pressure on the sphincter to keep it from opening.
GERD Complications
According to the Mayo Clinic, when you have a hiatal hernia, the sphincter rises above your diaphragm. This causes the sphincter to open at the wrong time and stomach acid may flow back into your esophagus. You can suffer from severe heartburn as a result of the herniated portion of your stomach becoming a reservoir for stomach acid. You can also develop scarring and inflammation of your esophagus and rare conditions such as Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.
Barret's Esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is a condition that results when the tissue lining within your esophagus is replaced with tissue that is much like the lining of your intestines. Cells that are contained within your intestines will begin to form in your esophagus, which creates this new lining. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, only 1 percent of Americans are afflicted with the disease. Men are also more likely to be diagnosed with the condition.
Other Complications
When a hernia becomes too large, the hernia may create extra pressure on your lungs or diaphragm. According to the Mayo Clinic, when part of your stomach begins to protrude into your chest cavity, part of the stomach can become twisted. As a result, the remainder of your stomach will lose blood flow. You will then experience severe chest pain and have difficulty in swallowing. Large hiatal hernias can also lead to lesions within your stomach that can cause bleeding. Due to the bleeding within your stomach, you can develop anemia.
Lifestyle Measures
Certain activities within your life can exacerbate a hiatal hernia. By minimizing these activities, you can help ease any symptoms you may experience. When you eat large meals, you can push your stomach into your chest. Eating smaller meals can take pressure off of your stomach. Stay away from trigger foods, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate and citrus fruits. If you're a smoker, try to quit. When you smoke, you're more likely to suffer from acid reflux.
