Hiatal Hernia, Symptoms, Treatment, Turkey

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Hiatal hernia, also known as a hiatus hernia, occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm. The diaphragm normally has a small opening called the hiatus through which the esophagus passes before connecting to the stomach. In hiatal hernia, the stomach bulges up through this opening and into the chest.

What is Hiatal Hernia?

A hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. There are two main types of hiatal hernias:

Sliding Hiatal Hernia: The most common type, where the stomach and the lower part of the esophagus slide up into the chest through the hiatus. This type is often associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia: Less common but more serious, where part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus, next to the esophagus, without displacing the gastroesophageal junction. This type can cause significant health issues as the stomach can become "strangled," cutting off its blood supply.

Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

Symptoms of a hiatal hernia vary depending on the severity and type. Some people may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages, while others may have noticeable issues such as:

Heartburn: Especially after eating or lying down, due to stomach acid entering the esophagus.

Regurgitation: The sensation of food or sour liquid coming up into the throat or mouth.

Difficulty Swallowing: Occurs as the herniated stomach compresses the esophagus.

Chest or Abdominal Pain: Can be severe and sometimes mistaken for a heart attack.

Belching: Frequent and uncontrollable.

Hiatal Hernia Treatment

The treatment of hiatal hernia depends on the severity of the symptoms and the type of hernia:

Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding meals before bed, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding foods that trigger reflux such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors to manage symptoms of acid reflux.

Surgery: In severe cases, especially when there's a risk of strangulation or when symptoms cannot be controlled with medication:

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication: A minimally invasive procedure where the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the sphincter that prevents acid reflux.

Hiatal Hernia Repair: Involves pulling the stomach back into the abdomen and making the opening in the diaphragm smaller.

Hiatal Hernia Treatment Turkey

Turkey has become a prominent destination for medical tourism, especially for the treatment of hiatal hernia due to the following advantages:

Experienced Surgeons: Many Turkish surgeons have extensive experience in laparoscopic procedures, which are essential for effective hiatal hernia surgery.

Advanced Medical Facilities: Hospitals in Turkey are equipped with state-of-the-art medical technologies and follow international health standards.

Cost-Effective: The cost of surgery in Turkey is often significantly lower than in Western countries, without compromising on quality.

Comprehensive Care: Many hospitals offer packages that include pre-operative and post-operative care, making it convenient for international patients.

Recommendations:

Consult a Specialist: If you suspect you have a hiatal hernia, consult a gastroenterologist or a general surgeon specialized in hiatal hernia treatment.

Consider All Treatment Options: Discuss all possible treatment approaches with your doctor to determine the best course of action based on your specific condition.

Follow Post-Surgery Instructions: Proper care after surgery is crucial for recovery. Follow your doctor’s guidelines regarding diet, activity, and medication.

Treating hiatal hernia effectively requires a comprehensive approach that may involve lifestyle changes, medication, and possibly surgery. With the right treatment plan, most people can expect to reduce or eliminate their symptoms.

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Hiatal Hernia Frequently Asked Questions

Does Hiatal Hernia Kill?

A hiatal hernia is usually not a life-threatening condition. However, in some cases, especially large hernias, it can cause serious symptoms. A hiatal hernia can present itself with symptoms such as reflux, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing. In very rare cases, a hiatal hernia can become trapped and damage the stomach tissue, requiring emergency surgery. If left untreated in these cases, serious complications can occur. However, the probability of a hiatal hernia being fatal is very low. Treatment and follow-up are of great importance in controlling the symptoms.

Does Hiatal Hernia Cause Pain?

Yes, a hiatus hernia can cause pain. People with a hiatus hernia may experience symptoms such as a burning sensation in the chest area (reflux), heartburn, bloating, and a feeling of pressure after eating. This pain is usually caused by stomach acid leaking back into the esophagus. In some cases, a hiatus hernia can also cause a feeling of tightness or pressure in the chest area, which can cause symptoms similar to heart pain. If the pain is severe or lasts for a long time, it is important to see a doctor.

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