What is a hiatal hernia. How does it affect your digestive system. What are the common symptoms of a hiatal hernia. When should you consider surgical treatment for a hiatal hernia. How is hiatal hernia surgery performed. What can you expect during recovery from hiatal hernia surgery.

Understanding Hiatal Hernias: Types and Causes

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm, a large muscle separating the abdomen from the chest cavity. This condition can be categorized into two main types:

1. Sliding hiatal hernia
2. Fixed (paraesophageal) hernia

The sliding hiatal hernia is more common and involves the stomach and esophagus sliding in and out of the chest through the hiatus. Fixed hernias, though less frequent, occur when a portion of the stomach remains pushed through the diaphragm.

What causes a hiatal hernia? While the exact cause isn’t always clear, several factors can contribute to its development:

• Age-related changes in the diaphragm
• Injury to the area
• Persistent pressure on the surrounding muscles
• Congenital factors

Recognizing Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

Many individuals with hiatal hernias may not experience any symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they often result from stomach acid, bile, or air entering the esophagus. Common signs include:

• Heartburn, especially when leaning over or lying down
• Acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)
• Chest pain or epigastric discomfort
• Difficulty swallowing
• Frequent belching

Can hiatal hernias cause complications? In rare cases, particularly with fixed hernias, there’s a risk of blood flow to the stomach becoming blocked, which can lead to serious damage and requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing Hiatal Hernias: Medical Procedures and Tests

Diagnosing a hiatal hernia often involves a combination of physical examination and diagnostic tests. Healthcare providers may use the following methods:

• Barium swallow test
• Endoscopy
• CT scan
• Manometry

How accurate are these diagnostic methods? While each test has its strengths, a combination of approaches often provides the most comprehensive diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate diagnostic strategy based on your symptoms and medical history.

Conservative Treatment Options for Hiatal Hernias

For many individuals with hiatal hernias, conservative treatment approaches can effectively manage symptoms. These may include:

1. Lifestyle modifications
2. Dietary changes
3. Medication

What lifestyle changes can help manage hiatal hernia symptoms? Consider the following:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding lying down immediately after eating
• Elevating the head of your bed
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking

Medications commonly prescribed for symptom relief include antacids, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. These can help reduce stomach acid and alleviate discomfort associated with acid reflux.

Surgical Interventions for Hiatal Hernias

While many hiatal hernias can be managed with conservative measures, surgical intervention may be necessary in certain cases. Surgery is typically considered when:

• Reflux symptoms cannot be controlled with medication
• The hernia is large (giant esophageal hernia or intrathoracic stomach)
• Complications arise, such as strangulation or obstruction

Several surgical options are available for repairing hiatal hernias:

1. Hiatus Repair Surgery

This procedure involves tightening and decreasing the size of the enlarged hiatus using sutures and prosthetic mesh. It prevents the stomach from bulging upward through the hiatus and is typically used for early-stage hiatal hernias.

2. Nissen Fundoplication

In this procedure, the upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower portion of the esophagus and secured with stitches. This creates pressure at the end of the esophagus, preventing stomach acid and food from flowing back up.

3. Collis-Nissen Gastroplasty

This surgery is employed for more complex hiatal hernias associated with esophageal shortening. It involves using tissue from the upper stomach to extend the esophagus, followed by a fundoplication procedure.

How effective are these surgical interventions? While success rates are generally high, the effectiveness can vary depending on the individual case and the specific technique used. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate procedure based on your condition and overall health.

Surgical Techniques: Open vs. Laparoscopic Approaches

Hiatal hernia repair surgery can be performed using two main techniques:

1. Open repair
2. Laparoscopic repair

What are the differences between these approaches? Open repair involves making a large incision in the abdomen, while laparoscopic surgery uses several small incisions and a camera-guided system. The choice between these techniques depends on various factors, including:

• The size and complexity of the hernia
• The patient’s overall health
• The surgeon’s expertise
• Potential presence of scar tissue from previous surgeries

Laparoscopic surgery often results in faster recovery times, less postoperative pain, and smaller scars. However, open surgery may be necessary for more complex cases or when laparoscopic techniques are not feasible.

Recovery and Postoperative Care After Hiatal Hernia Surgery

Recovery from hiatal hernia surgery typically involves a hospital stay of 1 to 2 days. Patients can expect the following during their recovery period:

• Dietary restrictions: A soft or liquid diet may be recommended for a few weeks post-surgery.
• Decreased appetite: This is common and usually temporary.
• Potential digestive changes: Some patients may experience diarrhea in the first few days after surgery.
• Gradual return to normal activities: Most patients can resume regular activities as comfort allows, with specific guidelines provided by their surgeon.

How long does it take to fully recover from hiatal hernia surgery? While individual experiences may vary, most patients can return to their normal routines within 2 to 3 weeks. However, complete internal healing may take up to 8 weeks.

Long-term Outlook and Lifestyle Adjustments

After recovering from hiatal hernia surgery, many patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms. However, making certain lifestyle adjustments can help maintain these benefits and prevent future complications:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding large meals, especially before bedtime
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption
• Elevating the head of the bed
• Wearing loose-fitting clothing

Can hiatal hernias recur after surgery? While recurrence is possible, it’s relatively uncommon. Following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

Emerging Treatments and Research in Hiatal Hernia Management

The field of hiatal hernia treatment continues to evolve, with ongoing research into new techniques and approaches. Some areas of current interest include:

• Robotic-assisted surgery
• Magnetic sphincter augmentation devices
• Endoscopic therapies
• Novel biomaterials for hernia repair

How might these advancements impact future treatment options? As research progresses, patients may benefit from less invasive procedures, reduced recovery times, and potentially improved long-term outcomes. However, it’s important to note that many of these approaches are still in the experimental or early adoption phases.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

While many hiatal hernias are asymptomatic or can be managed with conservative measures, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. Seek help if you experience:

• Severe chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing that persists or worsens
• Vomiting of blood
• Black, tarry stools
• Shortness of breath
• Fever accompanied by abdominal pain

These symptoms could indicate complications such as strangulation, obstruction, or bleeding, which require prompt medical intervention.

Nutritional Considerations for Hiatal Hernia Patients

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing hiatal hernia symptoms and supporting overall digestive health. Consider the following dietary recommendations:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid trigger foods that exacerbate acid reflux (e.g., spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
• Stay upright for at least three hours after eating
• Incorporate foods rich in fiber to promote healthy digestion
• Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking large quantities of fluids with meals

How can you identify your specific dietary triggers? Keeping a food diary can help you track which foods or eating habits may be contributing to your symptoms. This information can be valuable in developing a personalized nutrition plan with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for Symptom Management

While conventional medical treatments remain the primary approach for managing hiatal hernias, some patients find relief through alternative or complementary therapies. These may include:

• Acupuncture
• Herbal remedies (e.g., licorice root, chamomile)
• Relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation, deep breathing exercises)
• Chiropractic care
• Probiotics

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these approaches can vary, and scientific evidence supporting their use for hiatal hernias is often limited. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating alternative therapies into your treatment plan, especially if you’re considering herbal supplements that may interact with medications.

Living with a Hiatal Hernia: Coping Strategies and Support

Managing a hiatal hernia can be challenging, but developing effective coping strategies can significantly improve quality of life. Consider the following approaches:

• Educate yourself about the condition
• Join support groups or online communities
• Practice stress management techniques
• Communicate openly with your healthcare team
• Make necessary lifestyle adjustments gradually

How can family and friends support someone with a hiatal hernia? Encouraging healthy eating habits, understanding dietary restrictions, and offering emotional support can make a significant difference. Additionally, being patient and supportive during the recovery process after surgery is crucial.

Preventing Hiatal Hernias: Risk Factors and Proactive Measures

While not all hiatal hernias can be prevented, certain measures may help reduce your risk or prevent existing hernias from worsening:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Practice good posture
• Avoid heavy lifting or straining
• Quit smoking
• Manage underlying conditions that increase abdominal pressure (e.g., chronic cough, constipation)

Are there exercises that can help prevent or manage hiatal hernias? Some practitioners recommend specific exercises to strengthen the diaphragm and surrounding muscles. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have an existing hernia.

The Future of Hiatal Hernia Treatment: Personalized Medicine Approaches

As medical science advances, the future of hiatal hernia treatment may lie in personalized medicine approaches. This could involve:

• Genetic testing to identify predisposition to hernias
• Tailored surgical techniques based on individual anatomy
• Customized medication regimens
• Targeted lifestyle interventions

How might personalized medicine impact hiatal hernia management? By considering individual factors such as genetic makeup, lifestyle, and specific symptoms, healthcare providers may be able to offer more effective and targeted treatments. This approach could potentially lead to improved outcomes and reduced risk of recurrence.

In conclusion, hiatal hernias are a common condition that can significantly impact quality of life. While many cases can be managed conservatively, surgical intervention may be necessary for some individuals. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and lifestyle factors associated with hiatal hernias can empower patients to take an active role in their care and achieve optimal outcomes. As research continues to advance, new treatment modalities and personalized approaches may offer even more effective solutions for those affected by this condition.

Symptoms, Surgery, Treatment, and More

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach pushes up through your diaphragm and into your chest region. Hiatal hernias don’t always cause symptoms. Hiatal hernia symptoms may include heartburn, acid reflux, and chest pain.

A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of your stomach pushes up through your diaphragm and into your chest region.

The diaphragm is a large muscle that lies between your abdomen and chest. You use this muscle to help you breathe. Normally, your stomach is below the diaphragm, but in people with a hiatal hernia, a portion of the stomach pushes up through the muscle. The opening it moves through is called a hiatus.

There are generally two types of hiatal hernia: sliding hiatal hernias and fixed, or paraesophageal, hernias.

Sliding hiatal hernia

This is the more common type of hiatal hernia. It occurs when your stomach and esophagus slide into and out of your chest through the hiatus. Sliding hernias tend to be small. They usually don’t cause any symptoms, and may not require treatment.

Fixed hiatal hernia

This type of hernia is not as common. It’s also known as a paraesophageal hernia.

In a fixed hernia, part of your stomach pushes through your diaphragm and stays there. Most cases are not serious. But there’s a risk that blood flow to your stomach could become blocked. If that happens, it could cause serious damage and is considered a medical emergency.

It’s rare for even fixed hiatal hernias to cause symptoms. If you do experience any symptoms, they’re usually caused by stomach acid, bile, or air entering your esophagus. Common symptoms include:

• heartburn that gets worse when you lean over or lie down
• acid reflux or GERD
• chest pain or epigastric pain
• trouble swallowing
• belching

Surgical treatment is sometimes required to repair larger hiatal hernias and treat heartburn symptoms. Surgery for Hiatal hernias is used if reflux symptoms can not be successfully controlled with medication or if you have a type of hernia called a giant esophageal hernia, also known as intrathoracic stomach.

Types of surgery

While hiatal hernias can often be treated with lifestyle changes or medication, some people may need surgery to repair their hiatal hernias.

Surgery to repair a hiatal hernia may involve tightening your diaphragm and pulling the stomach down from the chest cavity back into the abdomen.

A surgeon will recommend surgery based on what stage your hiatal hernia is.

Common surgical options include:

• Hiatus repair surgery. This surgery uses sutures and prosthetic mesh to tighten and decrease the size of the enlarged hiatus, which is the opening in the diaphragm that the esophagus travels through on its way to the stomach. It prevents your stomach from bulging upward through the hiatus and is used for early-stage Hiatal hernias.
• Nissen Fundoplication. This procedure involves using stitches to wrap the upper part of the stomach, called the fundus, around the bottom portion of the esophagus in order to hold the stomach in place below the diaphragmatic hiatus. The stitches create pressure at the end of your esophagus which prevents stomach acid and food from flowing up from the stomach.
• Collis-Nissen gastroplasty. This surgery is used to lengthen the esophagus in patients with more complex forms of Hiatal hernia due to esophageal shortening. In this procedure, a surgeon will use tissue from the upper part of your stomach to extend your esophagus.

What to expect

Surgery to repair a hiatal hernia typically takes between 2 and 3 hours and is done while you’re under general anesthesia, so you’ll fall asleep and not feel pain during the procedure.

Surgery to repair a hiatal hernia can be done using different techniques:

• Open repair. In an open repair surgery, your surgeon will make a large surgical cut in your belly in order to perform surgery.
• Laparoscopic repair. In laparoscopic surgery, your surgeon will make several small cuts in your belly and insert a thin tube with a small camera through one of the cuts. Surgical tools will be inserted through the other cuts. Your surgeon will use a monitor hooked up to the camera in order to view the inside of your stomach and perform the surgery.

Recovery

You can expect to stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days after your surgery. Some surgeries may require you to follow a soft or liquid diet and avoid carbonated beverages for a couple of weeks after surgery.

You may find that your appetite has decreased following surgery, and some patients may experience diarrhea during the first few days after their hernia repair.

There are generally no significant restrictions after hiatal hernia repair surgery, which means it’s ok to walk, climb stairs, have sexual intercourse, or exercise as long as it doesn’t hurt.

Your surgeon or doctor will provide more specific guidelines and instructions for your recovery, depending on what type of surgery you have.

Most cases of hiatal hernia don’t require treatment. The presence of symptoms usually determines treatment. If you have acid reflux and heartburn, you may be treated with medications or, if those don’t work, surgery.

Medications

Medications your doctor may prescribe include:

• over-the-counter (OTC) antacids to neutralize stomach acid
• OTC or prescription h3-receptor blockers that lower acid production
• OTC or prescription proton pump inhibitors to prevent acid production, giving your esophagus time to heal

Diet

Hiatal hernia causes acid reflux symptoms. Changing your diet can reduce your symptoms. It may help to eat smaller meals several times a day instead of three large meals. You should also avoid eating meals or snacks within a few hours of going to bed.

There are also certain foods that may increase your risk of heartburn. Consider avoiding:

• spicy foods
• chocolate
• foods made with tomatoes
• caffeine
• onions
• citrus fruits
• alcohol

Other ways to reduce your symptoms include:

• stopping smoking
• raising the head of your bed by at least 6 inches
• avoiding bending over or lying down after eating

The exact cause of many hiatal hernias is not known. In some people, injury or other damage may weaken muscle tissue. This makes it possible for your stomach to push through your diaphragm.

Another cause is putting too much pressure (repeatedly) on the muscles around your stomach. This can happen when:

• coughing
• vomiting
• straining during bowel movements
• lifting heavy objects

Some people are also born with an abnormally large hiatus. This makes it easier for the stomach to move through it.

Factors that can increase your risk of a hiatal hernia include:

• obesity
• aging
• smoking

You may not avoid a hiatal hernia entirely, but you can avoid making a hernia worse by:

• losing excess weight
• not straining during bowel movements
• getting help when lifting heavy objects
• avoiding tight belts and certain abdominal exercises

Several tests can diagnose a hiatal hernia.

Barium swallow

Your doctor may have you drink a liquid with barium in it before taking an X-ray. This X-ray provides a clear silhouette of your upper digestive tract. The image allows your doctor to see the location of your stomach. If it’s protruding through your diaphragm, you have a hiatal hernia.

Endoscopy

Your doctor may perform an endoscopy. They’ll slide a thin tube in your throat and pass it down to your esophagus and stomach. Your doctor will then be able to see if your stomach is pushing through your diaphragm. Any strangulation or obstruction will also be visible.

Doctors don’t know exactly what causes hiatal hernias or how to prevent them from happening.

But certain factors like living with obesity and smoking may increase your risk of a hiatial hernia, so maintaining a moderate weight and quitting smoking may help decrease your risk of developing one.

An obstruction or a strangulated hernia may block blood flow to your stomach. This is considered a medical emergency. Call your doctor right away if:

• you feel nauseated
• you’ve been vomiting
• you can’t pass gas or empty your bowels

Don’t assume that a hiatal hernia is causing your chest pain or discomfort. It could also be a sign of heart problems or peptic ulcers. It’s important to see your doctor. Only testing can find out what’s causing your symptoms.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when the food, liquids, and acid in your stomach end up in your esophagus. This can lead to heartburn or nausea after meals. It’s common for people with a hiatal hernia to have GERD. However, that doesn’t mean either condition always causes the other. You can have a hiatal hernia without GERD or GERD without a hernia.

Many people with hiatal hernias have no symptoms and do not need medical care. But for people with more severe hernias, treatment with medication, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, surgery may be needed to repair the hernia and provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn and chest pain.

It’s possible for a hiatal hernia to recur after surgery. In a 2020 study, the recurrence rate for patients who underwent a minimally invasive fundoplication surgery was 18 percent.

Lifestyle changes like losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, eating smaller portions of food, limiting certain fatty and acidic foods, and eating meals a least 3 to 4 hours before lying down can help you manage the symptoms of hiatal hernia.

What Is a Hiatal Hernia? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

A hiatal hernia, or hiatus hernia, happens when the upper part of your stomach pushes up into your chest through an opening in your diaphragm called the hiatus, the muscle that separates your abdomen from your chest.

This happens where your stomach and esophagus join, an area known as the gastroesophageal (GE) junction. This is where the end of your esophagus normally goes through an opening in your diaphragm.

Sometimes a hiatal hernia doesn’t cause any problems at all and doesn’t require any treatment.

But in other cases, the narrow opening in your diaphragm can squeeze the part of the stomach that it surrounds, causing retention of stomach acid and other contents. These contents can back up into your esophagus, causing heartburn and other symptoms.

Self-care measures and medication to treat your symptoms are usually enough to deal with a hiatal hernia if your symptoms are relatively mild. But if your symptoms are severe, you may require surgery to help resolve them.

Types of Hiatal Hernias

There are two main types of hiatal hernias:

Sliding Hiatal Hernia This is when part of your stomach intermittently slides up into your chest through the opening in your diaphragm for your esophagus.

The vast majority of hiatal hernias are sliding, also known as type 1.

Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia This is when part of your stomach pushes through the opening in your diaphragm next to your esophagus, so that both your esophagus and part of your stomach are squeezed together in the hiatus.

This kind of hiatal hernia is relatively rare and is divided into types 2, 3, and 4. It’s generally more severe than a sliding hiatal hernia and may require an operation by a thoracic surgeon to repair.

Signs and Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

Many hiatal hernias, especially smaller ones, cause no symptoms and require no treatment.

But if your hiatal hernia is causing the backflow of acid and other stomach contents in your esophagus, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Heartburn
• Acidic or sour taste in your mouth or throat
• Regurgitation of foods or beverages into your mouth
• Bloated feeling in your abdomen
• Frequent belching (burping)
• Chest or abdominal pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting blood or passing black stools (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding)

A hiatal hernia can also lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic disease characterized by frequent bouts with the above symptoms.

Causes and Risk Factors of a Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernias happen because of weakening in the muscle tissue of your diaphragm, which allows your stomach to push up through the opening for your esophagus.

The specific causes of a weakened diaphragm aren’t always clear, but the following factors may play a role:

• Age-related changes to your diaphragm
• Injury from trauma or surgery
• Being born with a large hiatus (opening in the diaphragm)

A weakened diaphragm usually isn’t enough to cause a hiatal hernia — you also need increased pressure in your abdomen to push the stomach up through the diaphragm.

Hiatal hernias can occur at any age and affect both sexes, but certain factors increase the likelihood, including being over age 50, being overweight, smoking, and pregnancy. Increased abdominal pressure can also come from the following factors:

• Coughing
• Vomiting
• Straining during bowel movements
• Strenuous exercise
• Lifting heavy objects

How Is a Hiatal Hernia Diagnosed?

To diagnose a hiatal hernia, your doctor will first ask you about your symptoms and perform a physical exam.

If you’re experiencing frequent heartburn or chest or abdominal pain, your doctor will probably order tests to look for the cause of your symptoms. These tests may include:

Barium Swallow After drinking a chalky liquid containing barium, you’ll undergo an X-ray which allows your doctor to see the outline of your upper digestive tract.

If you have a hiatal hernia, this test will let your doctor see its size and whether there’s any twisting of your stomach — a potentially serious complication.

Upper Endoscopy In this test, your doctor will insert a thin, flexible tube containing a light and tiny camera into your throat and slide it down your esophagus into your stomach.

Esophageal Manometry This test measures muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow to assess its strength and muscle coordination.

pH Test A pH test measures the acid levels in your esophagus and can help determine whether your symptoms are related to acid reflux.

Gastric Emptying Studies If you’re experiencing severe symptoms like nausea and vomiting, testing how quickly food leaves your stomach can help identify causes other than a hiatal hernia.

Duration of a Hiatal Hernia

The duration of symptoms of a hiatal hernia vary greatly depending on the individual. In some cases, a hiatal hernia will slowly get worse over time and eventually need treatment. In severe cases, symptoms will not go away until a doctor performs surgery.

However, many people with a hiatal hernia will not experience any symptoms. The hiatal hernia will never get worse and never have an effect on their lives.

Treatment and Medication Options for Hiatal Hernias

Treating a hiatal hernia can involve lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery.

Your doctor will consider a number of factors when deciding on the best course of treatment, including your general health, how large your hernia is, and the severity of your symptoms.

Recommended lifestyle changes are generally aimed at reducing symptoms of GERD and may include losing weight, avoiding acidic, fried, or fatty foods, and quitting smoking.

Your doctor may also recommend the following medications to treat GERD:

Antacids These drugs neutralize stomach acid; over-the-counter antacids include brands like Mylanta, Rolaids, and Tums.

h3-Receptor Blockers These drugs reduce acid production and include famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), nizatidine (Axid), and (ranitidine (Zantac).

Surgery may also be needed if you have a strangulated hernia or severe GERD that isn’t responding well to lifestyle measures and medication.

Emergency surgery is needed for a strangulated hiatal hernia, where your stomach is being squeezed so tightly that its blood supply is cut off.

To surgically repair a hiatal hernia, your doctor will pull the entire stomach back down into your abdomen and make the opening in your diaphragm smaller.

If needed, your surgeon may also repair your esophageal sphincter — the muscle that normally prevents your stomach contents from flowing back into your esophagus.

This surgery is usually done laparoscopically — involving several small incisions and using a flexible tube containing a light and camera to view the inside of your abdomen and chest.

Rarely, your doctor may opt for an “open” procedure, which involves larger incisions, a longer recovery period, and a greater risk of infection, pain, and scarring.

Prevention of a Hiatal Hernia

It is difficult to prevent a hiatal hernia, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and minimize any symptoms. These include maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking.

If you have a hiatal hernia that leads to GERD, the following lifestyle changes can help prevent episodes of GERD:

• Losing weight
• Reducing meal and portion size
• Avoiding acidic foods, like tomatoes and citrus fruit
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol
• Limiting carbonated beverages
• Limiting fried and fatty foods
• Eating at least three to four hours before lying down
• Keeping your head and torso elevated at least 6 inches when you rest or sleep
• Quitting smoking

Complications of Hiatal Hernia

In the majority of cases, a hiatal hernia will not lead to other health problems. However, in some instances, it can lead to GERD.

Although a hiatal hernia can cause GERD, not all people with a hiatal hernia develop GERD — and most people with GERD don’t have a hiatal hernia.

Other complications of a hiatal hernia include lung problems or pneumonia, which can occur when stomach contents move up to the lungs.

Finally, if the stomach is being squeezed so tightly that its blood supply is cut off, this is called strangulation of the hernia and emergency surgery is needed.

Research and Statistics: How Many People Have Hiatal Hernia?

As the population in the United States ages and the obesity epidemic continues to grow, hiatal hernias are becoming more common. As many as 50 percent of adults over 50 have a hiatal hernia by the time they turn 60.

Still, despite how common hiatal hernias are, less than 10 percent of those affected experience significant symptoms.

Related Conditions to a Hiatal Hernia

If a hiatal hernia causes chest pain, it can often be confused with chest pain caused by cardiovascular conditions, including a heart attack.

If you experience chest pain, it’s important to check with your doctor or seek emergency medical treatment to make sure you’re not having a heart attack.

In addition to chest pain, other signs of a heart attack include:

• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, or jaw
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• Irregular heartbeat

Resources We Love

Favorite Organizations for Essential Information on Hiatal Hernia

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)

IFFGD is a nonprofit organization dedicated to education and research for all gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Get essential facts on GI issues like living with a hiatal hernia and heartburn, and read personal stories from people who are dealing with the same health problems.

Cleveland Clinic

The Cleveland Clinic provides a thorough overview of what it’s like living with a hiatal hernia, as well as information on diagnostic tests and treatment.

Additional reporting by Ashley Welch.

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• Vibration effect on muscle tissue helps to relieve pain from them.

GL888

Vibrator – 1pc

Battery – 1pc

Replacement tips – 4pcs

C transfer cradle – 1pc

Instruction Manual – 1pc

9 0002

By massaging different parts of the body, you can select different working attachments.

A) U-shape – can be applied to the back and sides of the neck, to the central part of the back along its entire length (for example, in a sitting position on a chair and rounding the back), as well as to the shoulder area

B) Flat nozzle – for all parts of the body

C) Spherical nozzle – for large muscles

D) Round small nozzle – mainly for small joints and for point impact, as well as on the palms and feet

Switch the device to the ON position. The battery power indicator lights up.

4 green lights – battery is charged.

Red indicator only – the device needs to be charged from the mains socket.

To start using the device, you need to install the battery supplied in the kit into a special socket in the case until it stops, hearing a characteristic click, which indicates that the battery is fixed in the device case.

The GL888 has 3 speed levels. When you press the START button once, the engine starts to rotate at minimum speed, one indicator lights up, this is 1 speed.

Pressing the second time, two indicators light up, 2nd speed.

By the third press, three indicators light up, 3rd speed.

Fourth press stops the engine.

Press again to restart the engine.

Then you need to insert the working nozzle of the desired shape into the hole on the front of the vibrator.

!!! The U-shaped massage head has a flange on the small part. The flange should align the groove in the hole and then insert the nozzle. When the U-piece is not aligned, it can be rotated slightly and then inserted.

After finishing the massage, disconnect the battery. Turn the battery switch to the OFF position.

In order to remove the battery from the device, press the button located on the case next to the battery and pull the battery towards you.

Charging the battery of the GL888 vibratory massager:

1. To recharge, insert the plug of the charger into the battery socket hole. At the same time, the battery power indicator will turn red, indicating normal charging;
2. When the battery is exhausted, it must be fully charged within 3 hours. When the battery is being charged, the battery indicator will turn red. The charged battery can be used continuously for 3 hours after the battery is fully charged.
3. For your safety, when the battery is charging, the engine button cannot be started.
4. It is not recommended to discharge the battery to the level of the red LED.

GL888 Vibrator Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of electric shock, fire, and personal injury:

1. Keep out of the reach of children.

2. In order not to damage the skin with the device, put on dry and clean clothing or place a clean and dry towel on the surface of the body where you plan to treat before using the vibration device

3. In the absence of discomfort, high speed and pressure can be applied only to areas of soft body tissues.

4. High speed and pressure cannot be applied to the bone parts of the head and body.

5. Choose the correct working attachment for the different parts.

6. Frequent high speed, high pressure on the same part of the body can lead to discomfort on the skin. Stop using if you experience any discomfort or pain.

7. Keep fingers and hair away from the telescopic rod and heat dissipation hole on the back of the motor to avoid pinching and injury.

8. Do not put objects into the engine cooling hole.

9. Do not immerse the machine in water, water must not enter the machine through the motor cooling hole.

10. Use only original factory charger.

11. Please check the equipment and battery carefully before use.

12. Do not make any changes to the equipment in private.

13. Do not leave the device on or charge when no one is around.

14. To remove the battery, gently press the battery release button with your thumb. Do not pull the battery/handle too hard.

GL888 vibrator maintenance

1. dry with a soft cloth.
2. During extended storage or travel, separate the battery from the device and place it in the original shipping box.

1. Avoid contact with water and moisture. Do not overheat and keep away from sources of ignition. Keep dust and debris out of the engine heat dissipation hole.
2. Do not disassemble the machine yourself.
3. Turn off the machine after one hour of operation for 30 minutes. Then you can continue to work.
4. Remove the power cord from the battery after charging or before use. Do not use the device during electrical recharging.
5. Do not use the device without consulting a doctor about injured body parts.
6. Use cover film when applying oils or ointments to the affected area. Treat the surface of the skin through the film so as not to stain the nozzles and the vibration device.
7. Do not allow the device to idle for a long time without load, this will increase the wear of the mechanism.
8. Use wet wipes when cleaning the surface of the vibrator, do not use anti-corrosion liquids.

Disclaimer:

Before using the vibrator, be sure to read the instructions carefully and use the equipment in accordance with the instructions.

If the equipment is not used properly, in violation of the rules of operation or not for its intended purpose, in accordance with the instructions, the company does not assume any legal liability for damage or loss caused.
Do not use the high speed or high level device without medical advice if you have the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Pregnancy
• Neuropathy
• Retinal injury
• Presence of a pacemaker
• In the postoperative period
• Epilepsy
• Migraine
• Herniated disc
• Spondylitis
• After joint transplant

Care must be taken when operating the GL888 vibrator.

These contraindications do not mean that you cannot use the device, we recommend that you first consult your doctor and use it with your doctor’s permission.

Contraindications for vibration massage

• Avoid using the vibration massager for acute inflammation.
• In acute lung failure, tuberculosis, pneumonia and other lung diseases.
• Do not use vibration massage in acute febrile processes.
• Do not use the device during pregnancy, especially if there is a risk of miscarriage.
• Avoid exposure of the device to the area of ​​the heart, for persons with a pacemaker.
• For high blood pressure, immediately after stroke and heart attacks.
• Vibratory massage should not be used, especially at reduced frequency in the presence of acute cholecystitis and duodenal ulcer.
• Massage is not indicated for all malignant and benign tumors and neoplasms, leukemia, blood diseases.
• Contraindications: ovarian cyst, uterine fibroids, breast mastopathy, prostate adenoma.
• Acute microbial and viral diseases: amoebic and bacterial dysentery, diphtheria, measles, smallpox natural, typhoid fever, tick-borne, relapsing, cholera, meningitis, encephalitis, poliomyelitis, tuberculosis of the lungs and other organs, rabies, Botkin’s disease, botulism, brucellosis, influenza , gonorrhea, syphilis and others.
• Vascular diseases (aneurysms, vein thrombosis, varicose veins)
• Surgical diseases: peritonitis, appendicitis, abdominal bleeding, fractures of the ribs and pelvis, fresh trauma of the spine and spinal cord, perforation of a stomach ulcer, strangulated abdominal or diaphragmatic hernia, torsion of the intestines, osteomyelitis and others. With internal bleeding or bleeding.
• Chronic infectious diseases that occur with high fever and intoxication, extensive purulent inflammation of the skin, musculoskeletal system, abscess of the brain, lung, pleurisy, thrombosis and microbial inflammation of the veins of the brain and others.
• Active rheumatism, myocardial infarction (acute period), stroke in the brain region (acute period), thrombosis of the arteries of the brain and pulmonary artery, comatose (unconscious) state, shock (traumatic, psychogenic).
• Hereditary diseases: idiocy, Down’s disease, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy and others.
• Mental illnesses: schizophrenia, manic-depressive psychosis, insanity, oligophrenia, alcoholic delirium (delirious tremens), hallucinations, delirium, hysteria, senile (senile psychosis), alcohol intoxication, narcotic state and others.
• For eczema
• Severe emaciation, last weeks of pregnancy, toxicosis of pregnancy.
• It is recommended to refuse vibromassage if the first procedure led to a deterioration in well-being.

Vibration massage of individual parts of the body (limbs, abdomen, back) is not recommended for more than 15-20 minutes on one part of the body. After each use on different people, it is necessary to wipe the nozzles with a disinfectant solution.

The muscles of the back are massaged with the help of a vibrating massager in a straight line. After removing pain from the muscle groups of the back, it is recommended to perform a manual massage.

The vibratory massager can be used in combination with medicated oils or gels to improve absorption through the skin.

Warranty Instructions:

The company will repair or replace parts free of charge, or replace with a new unit within one year due to manufacturing defects. Except when:
1. Damage to the device caused by incorrect operation or transportation.
2. The device has been disassembled and/or repaired without the permission of the manufacturer.
3. Machine not operating according to instructions.
4. Overloaded the design parameters of the device.
5. Damaged due to improper storage or maintenance by the buyer.
6. There are no documents confirming the date of purchase.

Product certified by EAC.