Acid Reflux Diet

While a hiatal hernia usually does not cause any symptoms, it is often accompanied by acid reflux which does cause pain and discomfort. Those suffering from hiatal hernia reflux know that it is not a pleasant condition. Once you understand hiatal hernia reflux, however, there are things you can do to make the experience less painful.

What Is Hiatal Hernia Reflux?

Under normal circumstances, food flows through the esophagus into the stomach, and a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) closes the passage. Once the passage is closed, stomach contents are unable to flow back into the esophagus. Acid reflux, however, is a disorder in which stomach acid, and other contents, are able to flow back into the esophagus. This is usually caused by abnormal weakness or relaxation of the LES.

Hiatal hernia reflux is, essentially, acid reflux with a twist. A hiatal hernia is a condition in which the upper part of the stomach pushes through the esophageal hiatus, which is an opening in the diaphragm where the esophagus connects to the stomach. The esophageal hiatus works with the LES, providing a backup mechanism to help keep stomach contents in the stomach. Because of the hernia, the hiatus cannot do its job which, in turn, weakens the LES and allows stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment of hiatal hernia reflux depends on the type of hiatal hernia involved. A para-esophageal hernia, which occurs in less than 10 percent of those with hiatal hernias, usually requires surgery for the hernia. The more common sliding hiatal hernia does not require surgery, so treatment is solely for relieving symptoms of hiatal hernia reflux.

The following are typical treatments for hiatal hernia reflux:

· Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large meals. Reflux symptoms are usually worse when the stomach is full because the fullness creates pressure that pushes acid upward toward the esophagus. Smaller meals alleviate that pressure.

· Try to remain upright for at least 2 hours after eating. Avoid bending, stooping, and lying down since those positions make it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.

· Elevate the head of your bed at least 4 inches. If you cannot elevate your bed, elevate your head with an extra pillow. This allows gravity to help pull stomach contents down and away from the esophagus.

· Avoid food and substances that raise acid levels. This includes alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, some citrus fruits, tomatoes and garlic.

· Avoid wearing tight clothing or belts around the waist. These increase pressure on the stomach, making it more likely that acid will be pushed up into the esophagus.

It is likely that a doctor will also recommend prescription medication to treat hiatal hernia reflux. Be sure to take any medication as prescribed to help fight the symptoms of reflux.

While hiatal hernia reflux can be painful, it is treatable. Understanding the condition, knowing what to do and what to avoid, and following your physician's recommendations can make it much easier to tolerate hiatal hernia reflux.

Contact Us | Privacy Policy |