Surgery to repair a hiatal hernia may involve pulling your stomach down into your abdomen and making the opening in your diaphragm smaller or reconstructing an esophageal sphincter. Surgery is generally used for people who aren't helped by medications to relieve heartburn and acid reflux, or have complications such as severe inflammation or narrowing of the esophagus. Sometimes a hiatal hernia requires surgery. Stronger versions are available in prescription form.

Over-the-counter proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid). These medications - known as proton pump inhibitors - are stronger acid blockers than H-2-receptor blockers and allow time for damaged esophageal tissue to heal. Medications that block acid production and heal the esophagus.Stronger versions are available by prescription. These medications - known as H-2-receptor blockers - include cimetidine (Tagamet HB), famotidine (Pepcid AC) and nizatidine (Axid AR). Medications to reduce acid production.Overuse of some antacids can cause side effects, such as diarrhea or sometimes kidney problems. Antacids, such as Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums, may provide quick relief. Antacids that neutralize stomach acid.If you experience heartburn and acid reflux, your doctor may recommend:

If you experience signs and symptoms, such as recurrent heartburn and acid reflux, you may need medication or surgery. Most people with a hiatal hernia don't experience any signs or symptoms and won't need treatment. Esophageal manometry also measures the coordination and force exerted by the muscles of your esophagus. This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow. Your doctor inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera (endoscope) down your throat, to examine the inside of your esophagus and stomach and check for inflammation. The coating allows your doctor to see a silhouette of your esophagus, stomach and upper intestine. X-rays are taken after you drink a chalky liquid that coats and fills the inside lining of your digestive tract. A tiny camera on the end of the endoscope lets your doctor examine your esophagus, stomach and the beginning of your small intestine (duodenum).Ī hiatal hernia is often discovered during a test or procedure to determine the cause of heartburn or chest or upper abdominal pain. An endoscopy procedure involves inserting a long, flexible tube (endoscope) down your throat and into your esophagus.

Hiatal hernia type 3