How does Hiatal Hernia Cause Acid Reflux?
Hiatal hernia is a condition that occurs when a portion of the stomach protrudes upwards into the chest region through the esophagus. A thin muscle, known as the diaphragm separates the abdominal cavity from the chest. The esophagus, or food pipe, passes down into the abdomen through a small opening present in the diaphragm. This opening in the diaphragm is known as hiatus. It is regulated by a sphincter muscle or valve, that permits food to pass through the diaphragm into the abdomen and prevents the back flow. Sometimes, due to age or several other reasons, the muscle may stretch causing the hiatus in the diaphragm to enlarge. This may cause part of the stomach to slip up into the chest, and this condition is known as hiatal hernia. This condition is responsible for weakening the lower esophageal sphincter, thus resulting in acid reflux. There are two main types of hiatal hernias- sliding hiatal hernia and para-esophageal hernia. Although acid reflux is often associated with sliding
