Hiatal Hernia Treatment in Central New Jersey

The specialists at Specialty Surgical Associates treat several different hernia types, including hiatal or paraesophageal hernias. While most hernias affect the abdominal wall, a hiatal paraesophageal hernia forms specifically within the upper region of the abdomen, through the diaphragm muscle.  Mother nature has placed holes in the diaphragm muscle.  When the hole that allows the esophagus to pass through the diaphragm, also known as the hiatus,  enlarges, it allows other structures to pass through.  This is what we call a hiatal or paraesophageal hernia.  If you’re experiencing symptoms of a paraesophageal hernia in central New Jersey, contact Specialty Surgical Associates today to schedule a consultation in Eatontown. Give us a call at 732-365-4326 today to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Signs & Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

Many individuals can have a hiatal hernia without ever realizing it, as the condition does not always present significant symptoms. As the hernia grows larger, the occurrence of painful or problematic symptoms generally becomes more frequent. Such symptoms typically include:

• Heartburn
• Shortness of breath
• Acid reflux
• Difficulty swallowing
• Belching 
• Regurgitation of food or drink
• Chest pain

Vomiting and dark-colored stool may also occur as a result of a hiatal hernia, but these symptoms are usually only seen in much more severe cases. If the hernia has become obstructed or strangulated, it is critical that individuals seek medical care immediately to avoid cutting off the blood flow to these important tissues in the esophagus and stomach.

How a Hiatal Hernia Forms

As with any type of hernia, a significant strain on the body can lead to the development of weak spots in various tissues that are prone to injury. This is especially true for individuals who repeatedly subject their stomach muscles to intense activities such as coughing, heavy lifting, vomiting, or strenuous bowel movements. Obesity can make these situations, along with everyday habits, much more taxing on the body. Several uncontrollable factors can contribute to a person’s potential to develop a paraesophageal hiatal hernia. Some individuals are simply born with a large hiatus, and aging can also contribute to a higher risk of herniation in this area of the body. 

The Two Types of Hiatal Hernias

During a diagnostic evaluation with Speciality Surgical Associates, patients will learn whether they have a sliding hiatal hernia or a fixed hiatal hernia. A large majority of cases are determined to be sliding hiatal hernias, which occur when the stomach and esophagus bulge inward and outward through the hiatus as they move. Individuals with a fixed hiatal hernia will experience a part of their stomach bulging through the diaphragm and remaining stuck in place. Most hiatal hernias will be diagnosed using a barium X-ray, or an endoscopy. Viable treatment options depend heavily upon the amount of damage seen during these tests and procedures.  Medications can be quite helpful in managing symptoms caused by a hiatal hernia. For example, acid reflux can often be reduced by taking easily available over-the-counter antacids. Not every person will require treatment for their hiatal hernia, but those who have or are likely to suffer severe complications are often advised to surgically repair the hiatus.

Surgical Hiatal Hernia Repair in Eatontown

Surgery to correct a hiatal hernia may be performed as a traditional open surgery, or laparoscopically. While both options present favorable success rates, laparoscopic surgery is associated with several noteworthy benefits such as a reduced risk for potential complications, as well as a shorter recovery period.  Even after surgery, there is a chance for a hiatal hernia to return, which is why patients should take special care to avoid strenuous activity, maintain a healthy weight, and eat milder foods that are less likely to irritate the stomach or esophagus.

Schedule a Hernia Consultation

To speak with an experienced hernia surgeon about your treatment options, please contact Specialty Surgical Associates today when you call 732-365-4326 to schedule an appointment at our Eatontown office.