What is a hiatus hernia?

A hiatus hernia is the protrusion of the stomach above the diaphragm.

What are the signs and symptoms of a hiatus hernia?

While many people live with a hiatus hernia and never display symptoms, others do exhibit symptoms, which may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Gastro-oesophageal reflux symptoms
• Discomfort when lying down

Which test(s) and/or procedure(s) may be requested to determine if I have a hiatus hernia?

A chest x-ray is usually the first investigation to detect a hiatus hernia. Further imaging with CT scan of the chest might be required to determine the type and extent of the hiatus hernia.

How is this condition surgically treated?

A surgical procedure called a Laparoscopic Hiatus Hernia repair is used to surgically treat a hiatus hernia.