Hiatal Hernia

June 9, 2011

Hiatal Hernia Help

Those suffering from Hiatal hernia know the pain and discomfort that is associated with this disorder. In many cases, seeking relief can be difficult and they may feel as though their options are limited. While surgery, prescription and over-the-counter medications may be available, many simply do not wish to deal with the undesirable side effects associated with such treatments. However, there are other forms of Hiatal hernia help that are natural and provide results.

Diet and Supplements

Changes in diet and supplementation can help ease the symptoms of this type of hernia. Many of the herbs used for such remedies can be mixed with a hot beverage such as tea or may be taken by capsule or simply mixed with plain water for consumption. Common herbs used in treatment can include black walnut and licorice root, just to name a few. For more severe cases that are accompanied by a constant burning and stinging sensation, research suggests that supplementation of calcium phosphorica can alleviate the pain. These supplements are often taken at bedtime, when symptoms may be at their worst for many sufferers.

Regulation of Digestion

Regulating digestive process can play a significant role in the body’s response to the hiatal hernia. This too involves supplementation to the diet. One key element is that of aloe vera. Although it is typically associated with soothing skin inflammation, it can also help calm gastrointestinal disorders and their associated symptoms. Rather than take capsules though, the juice is actually extracted from the leaf of the plant.

Exercise

While cardio is often the first thing that comes to mind, strength training workouts are actually the most recommended for hiatal hernia help. The goal is to strengthen and tone the muscles surrounding the affected area. This can significantly decrease the symptoms and promote healing. Generally, all that is needed is as little as fifteen minutes of exercise that targets the abdomen and chest at least three times a week. However, it is recommended that the patient build-up his or her tolerance level over a matter of weeks, otherwise this may temporarily increase discomfort.

For more information regarding Hiatal hernia help visit refluxremedy.com today!

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Hiatal Hernia Shortness of Breath

Hiatal hernia is the term used to describe a condition in which a portion of the stomach has protruded into the diaphragm, either as a result of a tear or a weakness of the diaphragm muscle. When this occurs, it interferes with the flow of food through the esophagus and into the stomach, which can result in multiple problems including heartburn, chest pain, and shortness of breath.

Hiatal hernias are most common in individuals over the age of 50 and can be caused or aggravated by factors such as obesity, smoking, frequent coughing, poor posture, and heavy lifting. Many individuals who suffer from hiatal hernias do not experience any symptoms, but a small percentage of people will experience symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty swallowing, acid reflux, and hiccups.

One of the more disturbing symptoms reported with hiatal hernias is shortness of breath. This happens when the hernia crowds the chest area, thereby giving the lungs less room to work. With the reduced lung capacity, individuals who suffer from this condition often find that they have a hard time catching their breath, as well as feeling as if they never quite get enough oxygen into their lungs. It can make everyday activities such as climbing stairs much more difficult.

Often, lifestyle changes can be highly effective in mitigating the symptoms of a Hiatal hernia. Simple changes such as exercising more and improving posture can make a significant difference, especially when it comes to alleviating the shortness of breath that can occur with a hiatal hernia. Other recommended changes include eating smaller meals, refraining from heavy lifting, and elevating the head while sleeping. Dietary changes also have been shown to have a positive impact on these symptoms. Eliminating things such as caffeine, chocolate, and fried foods can be highly effective and preventing or eliminating these symptoms.

For many individuals experiencing shortness of breath due to a Hiatal hernia, implementing these lifestyle and dietary changes will allow them to successfully eliminate or manage their symptoms.

For more information regarding shortness of breath as it is associated with a Hiatal hernia visit refluxremedy.com today!

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Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia

Nature and Symptoms

Also known as hiatus hernia, paraesophageal hiatal hernia is a protrusion of the stomach into the thorax due to a tear or weakness in the diaphragm. This condition is often called the ‘great mimic’ because its symptoms resemble many other disorders, such as heartburn, shortness of breath, or even chest pains, which can be mistaken as heart attack.

While hiatus hernia can occur anytime as a result of some factors, it affects mostly middle-aged people and is more common in developed countries. This is likely a result of unhealthy diets, higher rates of obesity, and less physically active lifestyles.

Causes

Paraesophageal hiatal hernia is caused by several factors including diet, heredity, weight, lifestyle, and habits. Pregnancy and obesity can push the top of the stomach upwards, leading to hiatal hernia. Other physical causes include violent vomiting (especially when forced out as in anorexics), hard sneezing or coughing, heavy lifting, and straining during defecation.

A lack of fiber in the diet causes constipation and straining during defecation. This increases intra-abdominal pressure to the stomach which can result in hiatus hernia. Unhealthy lifestyles such as excessive drinking,smoking, and stress may also contribute to the condition.

Risks

Occasional mild discomfort and feelings of bloating or acid reflux are common, and need no urgent medical attention.

However, an enlarged hernia can pose two major threats – incarceration and strangulation. Incarceration is where the hernia is tightly stuck and repeatedly squeezed beside the esophagus, causing intense pain. Strangulation is more serious and life-threatening, because the hernia is in a position to cut off air circulation and blood supply. In rare cases, the hernia can lead to esophageal injury and even cancer.

Treatment and Prevention

In less serious cases, doctors advise patients to elevate the head of the bed and avoid lying down when full. Medications may be prescribed for stress, acid reflux, and constipation.

Hiatus hernia can be prevented through healthy habits and proper nutrition. Consumption of high-fiber foods prevent constipation and reduce risk of hiatal hernia. Avoid coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes. When lying down, elevating the head and torso can alleviate symptoms. Weight loss is advisable in overweight individuals. Physical activities should exclude heavy lifting. Most of all, individuals should relax and avoid stressful situations.

These practices will alleviate the condition and help one to avoid extreme solutions, which can include surgery.

For more information about Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia visit refluxremedy.com today!

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May 10, 2011

Acid Reflux Syndrome

Acid reflux syndrome occurs primarily as a result of an abnormal or weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a very important part of the digestive process. The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscle that is located in between the esophagus and the stomach opening or diaphragm. A functional LES acts as a gateway for food to pass through from the esophagus to the stomach. A weak LES however, permits stomach acid to pass from the stomach to the esophagus. This is how acid reflux is allowed to happen. Normally, the LES opens for food to enter the stomach and closes afterward. If the LES does not close tightly enough or at all, this can pose a serious threat to your body and cause acid reflux.

Stomach acid is not something that is safe in other parts of your body. Because of the acidity and corrosiveness of stomach acid, no other part of the body is equipped to deal with it. The stomach has several layers and lining that prevents this acid from doing damage to the organ. The purpose of the acid is to help to break down the food you eat into tiny particles. Once broken down, the particles are transferred to the large and small intestines where nutrients, proteins and minerals are extracted and delivered to other parts of the body.

When stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus and even up to the throat, this can be very painful and irritating. Acid in the esophagus can eat away at the nearby tissue and cause you to feel uncomfortable. Frequent stomach acid in the esophagus and throat may be classified as acid reflux syndrome. To determine whether you have acid reflux or not, you should become aware of the causes and symptoms.

Causes

There are some things, other than a weak lower esophageal sphincter that can contribute to the development of acid reflux syndrome. Having a hiatal hernia, being pregnant or obese can all encourage acid reflux to occur. These conditions cause a shift in your internal organs, especially the stomach. If you are pregnant or obese, this can put excess pressure and weight on the stomach, forcing it to shift and morph. This can allow stomach acid to seep out. Your diet and eating habits are also a factor in the development of acid reflux syndrome. Eating fatty foods, large portions and eating right before bed, are not good for acid reflux. You should also avoid lifting heavy objects.

Symptoms

The most prevalent symptom of acid reflux is heartburn. Heartburn affects more than 40 percent of Americans at some point in their lifetime. Heartburn causes you to feel a burning and sometimes painful sensation. It is called heartburn because it happens in the esophagus and throat, where acid is present. This area is close to the heart. If you have persistent heartburn, more than a couple times per week, you probably have acid reflux syndrome. Treating acid reflux syndrome is something that can be done through your diet and lifestyle choices.

For more information on acid reflux syndrome, review The Reflux Remedy Report to get all of your questions answered.

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