Hiatal Hernia

Treatment Overview

A sliding hiatal hernia that causes no symptoms generally needs no treatment.

If you have symptoms, you probably have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Hiatal hernia and GERD often occur together. Your symptoms may vary from mild to severe.

If you have severe GERD symptoms, they often can be treated successfully with medicines. Less commonly, a sliding hiatal hernia can be surgically repaired through fundoplication, a procedure in which the hernia is pulled down from the chest cavity and stitched (sutured) so that it remains within the abdomen (belly). For more information, see the topic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Occasional or mild symptoms can generally be treated with home treatment, including lifestyle changes and nonprescription medicines.

If you have a paraesophageal or mixed hiatal hernia, surgery generally is recommended to avoid complications. Consult your doctor.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: March 24, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.