Millions of individuals experience frequent acid, chest burn, or sour pitting with belching and have to use daily antacids to relieve this problem. What many would not imagine is that chronic cases of acid reflux are not necessarily an issue of digestion. The actual issue is actually a Hiatus hernia, which is a structural disorder in most instances and cannot be cured effectively by medicines. This blog is particularly applicable to individuals who have made efforts to change their lifestyles and use medications, and yet they continue to experience persistent symptoms.
Common Symptoms: Heartburn or Something More?
Acid reflux and hiatus hernia may have similar symptoms, which can cause confusion. Typical signs include:
- Chest aches (heartburn) particularly after eating.
- Pain in the chest that can increase on bending or lying.
- Regurgitation, in which the food or sour liquid returns to the throat.
- Postprandial heaviness or discomfort.
Although occasional heartburn may not be dangerous, the persistent or frequent symptoms are serious.
The Root Cause: Why Hiatus Hernia Happens
This is due to a hiatus hernia, in which the diaphragm muscle is weak, leading to the partial stomach moving upwards to the chest cavity. Under normal conditions, the diaphragm serves as a barrier between the chest and the abdomen. Once this roadblock weakens, stomach acid flows into the food pipe with ease, leading to severe, long-term reflux. To put it bluntly, the issue is mechanical rather than merely chemical- this is the reason why antacids tend to provide a short-term solution.
Diagnosis: Finding the Real Problem
In order to determine the presence of symptoms caused by simple acid reflux or hiatus hernia, it is necessary to conduct appropriate tests:
- Endoscopy assists in viewing inflammation, ulcers, or hernia.
- Manometry measures pressure and movement in the food pipe to help evaluate muscle activity.
The tests enable physicians to make treatment decisions rather than relying on symptoms to make an educated guess.
Solution: Medicines vs. Surgery
Antacids and acid suppressants can manage symptoms but do not address a hiatus hernia. Surgery can be the most suitable option in case the symptoms recur following withdrawal of medication.
Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication is a very minor surgery that repairs the hernia and reinforces the valve between the stomach and the esophagus. It is long-term relief, less reliance on medicines, and a great improvement in the quality of life.
Take the Right Expert Advice
When acidity becomes a day-to-day issue, it is time to go beyond it. See Dr. Achal Agrawal, who deals with hiatal hernia and advanced laparoscopic treatment of acid reflux. Early detection and the appropriate treatment can offer a permanent remedy and eliminate further complications in the long run.
