Hiatal hernia

Alternative names:

hernia - hiatal

Definition:

A condition in which a portion of the stomach protrudes upward into the chest through an opening in the diaphragm (the sheet of muscle used in breathing that separates the chest from the abdomen).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause is unknown but may be the result of a weakening of the supporting tissue. Obesity and smoking may be risk factors in adults. Children usually have this condition present at birth (congenital). It is usually associated with gastroesophageal reflux in infants.

Hiatal hernias are very common, especially in people over 50 years old. Regurgitation of gastric acid from the stomach into the esophagus can result from this condition.