What it is
Symptoms are usually managed with lifestyle changes and medicines that reduce stomach acid.
Surgery is sometimes needed for large hernias or if symptoms do not improve.
Common signs
- Heartburn
- Bringing up food or sour liquid
- Bad breath
- Bloating and burping
- Difficulty swallowing, sometimes
How it is usually diagnosed
- Endoscopy (gastroscopy)
- Barium swallow X-ray
- Found by chance on a scan, often
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Endoscopy reports
- Scan or X-ray reports
- A list of medicines tried
Questions to ask your doctor
- How large is my hiatus hernia?
- Will it need surgery?
- What can I do to ease the symptoms?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Chest pain, vomiting blood, black poo, or being unable to swallow: get urgent medical help
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.