Hiatus Hernia (GERD) – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Learn about hiatus hernia, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
By: Dr. Ahmed Abdel Salam Abdel Kader Ibrahim
🟢 Hiatus Hernia (GERD) – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the chest 🫁 from the abdomen 🍽️
The esophagus passes through it to connect to the stomach.
When this opening becomes weak or enlarged, a condition called hiatus hernia occurs ⚠️
🩺 Symptoms
🔥 Severe heartburn
🤢 Nausea
💨 Hiccups
💔 Chest pain
❗ Not all symptoms are required; one may be enough for medical consultation.
⚠️ Risk Factors
Weak diaphragm muscle
Increased abdominal pressure 🤰
Age over 50 👴
Obesity ⚖️
Smoking 🚬
Genetic or congenital factors
🔥 Heartburn & Hiatus Hernia
Heartburn is one of the most common symptoms and is more frequent in:
GERD patients
Elderly people
Smokers
Overweight individuals
⚠️ Complications
If untreated, it may lead to:
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
Esophageal ulcers 🧪
Long-term complications
👥 Who is at risk?
Elderly patients 👴
Smokers 🚬
Obese individuals ⚖️
Can affect anyone
🏥 When is surgery needed?
Surgery is considered when:
No response to medication 💊
Obstruction ❌
Severe ulcers
Bleeding or complications
🔬 Diagnosis
Clinical examination 🧑⚕️
Barium swallow X-ray 🩻
Gastroscopy 🔍
💊 Treatment
Antacids
Acid-reducing medications
Surgery in severe cases 🏥
🛡️ Prevention
Eat small meals 🍽️
Avoid spicy and fatty foods 🌶️
Do not lie down after eating ⛔
Stop smoking 🚬
Reduce stress
🏥 Surgery (Nissen Fundoplication)
The most common surgery:
Repositioning the stomach
Strengthening the valve between stomach and esophagus
Preventing acid reflux 🔒
📊 Success Rate
Up to 95% success rate 🎯
with significant improvement in quality of life 👍
👨⚕️ Dr. Ahmed Abdelsalam Abdelkader
Consultant General Surgeon, Endoscopy & Oncology – Armed Forces
Dr. Mohamed Mansour Kamel provides advanced bariatric surgery services in Mohandessin and Giza, including medical assessment and discussion of suitable surgical options based on obesity level, medical history, and each patient's needs.
Learn about common sports injuries, their causes, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and safe return to physical activity with Dr. Ahmed Bassiouny.
Discover Doppler ultrasound services in Sharqia at Dr. Mahmoud El-Tawil Diagnostic Radiology, Ultrasound & Doppler Center in Awlad Saqr, offering accurate diagnostic examinations using modern medical technology and detailed reports to support diagnosis and treatment follow-up.
Learn how laser hair removal works, how many sessions may be needed, and important pre- and post-treatment tips with Dr. Qamaria Tarek El-Banna.
