What Causes a Sliding Hiatal Hernia?
A sliding hiatal hernia happens when the diaphragmatic muscles that hold the esophagus in place weaken. This allows the lower esophagus and stomach to slide through the hole in the diaphragm when pressure in the abdomen increases from physical exertion, coughing, bending over or when too much pressure is applied to the abdomen by wearing constrictive clothing. Diaphragmatic muscles weaken with age, so it is not surprising that a sliding hiatal hernia is more common in people over the age of 40. Obesity also increases the risk of a hiatal hernia since a large tummy puts pressure on the diaphragm. People who smoke, are pregnant or who have congenital abnormalities of the diaphragm are also at higher risk.
