What Causes a Hiatal Hernia?
Most of the time, the cause of a hiatal hernia is not known. Some people develop a hiatal hernia after sustaining an injury to that area of the body; others are born with a weakness or an especially large hiatus. Some experts suspect that increased pressure in the abdomen from coughing, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy and delivery, or substantial weight gain may contribute to the development of a hiatal hernia.
Some people are born with one. But most commonly, a hiatal hernia is caused by any lifestyle factor that causes weakening of the diaphragm and the connective tissue that is in place in and around the esophageal hiatus to help prevent a hernia. Emotional stress, physical stress, lack of adequate rest, being overweight for your height, and smoking cigarettes are the most common lifestyle factors that can contribute to the development of a hiatal hernia. Hiatal Hernia Treatment Options The symptoms of heartburn that can accompany a hiatal hernia often respond positively to one or more of the following measures: • Avoid smoking cigarettes. • Avoid or limit caffeine intake. • Avoid alcohol, especially hard liquor. • Do not overeat. • Wear loose, comfortable clothing around your torso. Sometimes, a hiatal hernia can be corrected with the following physical measures: • Apply gentle massage to the uppermost portion of your abdominal cavity. To do this, use your fingers to find the point at whi
