Many people experience heartburn or indigestion from time to time, but what if these symptoms are signs of something more? Hiatal hernia symptoms are often mistaken for acid reflux, yet they are not exactly the same. Understanding the difference between these conditions can help you seek the right treatment and avoid long-term complications.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common hiatal hernia symptoms, how they compare to acid reflux, and what steps you can take if you’re experiencing discomfort.
What Is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. Normally, the diaphragm helps keep stomach contents in place, but a hernia weakens this barrier, allowing acid and stomach tissue to move upward. This condition is quite common, especially in people over 50, but many may not realize they have it until symptoms appear.
Common Hiatal Hernia Symptoms
Not everyone with a hiatal hernia experiences noticeable symptoms, but for those who do, the signs can range from mild to severe. The most common hiatal hernia symptoms include:
- Heartburn – A burning sensation in the chest, often after eating or when lying down.
- Regurgitation – The sensation of food or stomach acid coming back up into the throat or mouth.
- Difficulty swallowing – Feeling like food is stuck in the esophagus or trouble getting food down.
- Chest pain – Discomfort that can mimic heart-related pain but is caused by acid irritation or pressure from the hernia.
- Belching – Frequent burping or a bloated feeling in the upper abdomen.
- Shortness of breath – In larger hernias, the stomach’s position in the chest can press on the lungs and make breathing harder.
- Feeling full quickly – Early satiety or discomfort after small meals.
While these symptoms can overlap with acid reflux, they are not always identical. People with a hiatal hernia might experience reflux-like symptoms but may also notice additional pressure in the chest or breathing difficulties.
How Hiatal Hernia Symptoms Differ From Acid Reflux
It’s easy to confuse hiatal hernia symptoms with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since both can cause heartburn and regurgitation. However, a hiatal hernia involves a physical change in anatomy, while acid reflux refers to the backward flow of stomach acid.
Some key differences include:
- Chest pressure or tightness: Hiatal hernias can create a sensation of fullness or pressure in the chest beyond typical reflux discomfort.
- Worsening symptoms when bending or lying down: People with a hernia may find that symptoms intensify in certain positions due to the stomach’s displacement.
- Difficulty swallowing and breathing: These symptoms are more likely in moderate to large hernias, especially if the hernia affects the esophagus or diaphragm.
If you experience persistent chest pain, especially if it spreads to your arm or jaw, or is accompanied by sweating or shortness of breath, seek emergency medical care—these could be signs of a heart attack, not a hernia.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Mild hiatal hernia symptoms can sometimes be managed with lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, losing weight, and reducing spicy or acidic foods. Over-the-counter antacids may provide relief for occasional heartburn.
However, you should consult a doctor if:
- Your symptoms persist despite medication.
- You have severe or frequent chest pain.
- You experience difficulty swallowing that worsens over time.
- You have unexplained weight loss or vomiting.
In some cases, especially if a large hernia is diagnosed, hiatal hernia surgery may be recommended to repair the opening in the diaphragm and prevent further complications.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing the subtle differences between hiatal hernia symptoms and acid reflux is key to getting the right treatment. While both conditions share common signs like heartburn and regurgitation, a hiatal hernia can also cause chest pressure, swallowing difficulties, and shortness of breath. If you suspect you might have a hiatal hernia or your reflux symptoms aren’t improving, speak with a healthcare professional for evaluation.
With proper management, many people with a hiatal hernia can reduce discomfort and prevent symptoms from worsening over time.
