Beyond Acid Reflux: Understanding Hiatal Hernia and Its Impact on Stomach Pain

Introduction: When Acid Reflux Is More Than It Seems

Many people blame acid reflux for their frequent heartburn, painful stomach cramps, or even pain on the right side of the stomach. But in some cases, the real culprit isn’t just reflux — it’s a hiatal hernia.

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, leading to a wide range of symptoms that can mimic or worsen acid reflux. Understanding this condition is critical because, left untreated, it can significantly impact your quality of life.

If you’re experiencing unexplained abdominal discomfort, consulting a best gastroenterologist in Chandigarh like Dr. Sandeep Pal is the first step toward relief.

What Is a Hiatal Hernia?

A hiatal hernia happens when the opening in the diaphragm (the hiatus) becomes too wide, allowing the stomach to bulge upward into the chest cavity.

Types of Hiatal Hernia

• Sliding Hiatal Hernia — The most common type, where both the stomach and the lower esophagus slide into the chest cavity.

• Paraesophageal Hiatal Hernia — Less common but more dangerous, as part of the stomach squeezes alongside the esophagus, which may lead to obstruction or strangulation.

Symptoms of Hiatal Hernia You Shouldn’t Ignore

Digestive Symptoms

• Persistent heartburn and acid reflux

• Painful stomach cramps after eating

• Difficulty swallowing food or liquids

• Bloating and excessive burping

Referred Pain and Other Symptoms

Hiatal hernia symptoms can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis tricky. Patients sometimes report pain on the right side of the stomach, chest discomfort, or even shortness of breath — symptoms that overlap with [chronic lower abdominal pain] (Internal Link: Chronic Abdominal Pain Blog).

Why Hiatal Hernias Are Often Misdiagnosed

Because the symptoms overlap with gastritis, gallbladder issues, and acid reflux, many patients go undiagnosed for years.

For example, someone with persistent stomach pain might first be treated for gastritis treatment while the underlying hiatal hernia remains unnoticed until an endoscopy is performed.

Diagnostic Approach to Hiatal Hernia

Endoscopy (EGD)

An endoscopy test in Chandigarh is the gold standard for diagnosing hiatal hernia. This test allows a gastroenterologist to directly view the esophagus, stomach, and diaphragm junction.

Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis with Imaging

• Barium swallow X-ray to visualize structural changes

• CT scan if complications are suspected

Esophageal Motility Studies

These tests measure how well your esophagus contracts and moves food toward the stomach — helpful for patients with swallowing difficulties.

Complications of Untreated Hiatal Hernia

If ignored, a hiatal hernia can lead to serious complications:

• Esophagitis — inflammation of the esophagus

• Ulcers and bleeding

• Barrett’s esophagus — a precancerous condition

• Strangulation in paraesophageal hernias (a medical emergency)

Treatment and Medical Management of Hiatal Hernia

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals

• Avoid lying down immediately after eating

• Elevate your head while sleeping

• Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods

Medication Management

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce acid

• H2 blockers for milder reflux

• Prokinetics to improve stomach emptying

Surgical Options

For severe cases, laparoscopic surgery may be required to reposition the stomach and reinforce the diaphragm opening.

Patient Story: From Misdiagnosis to Recovery

Mrs. Kaur, a 52-year-old patient, visited Dr. Sandeep Pal with painful stomach cramps and bloating. Initially treated for gastritis, her symptoms persisted. After an endoscopy, she was diagnosed with a sliding hiatal hernia.

With medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary counseling, her symptoms improved drastically. This highlights why timely diagnosis by a gastroenterologist is crucial.

How Dr. Sandeep Pal Helps Patients in Chandigarh

As a leading gastroenterologist in Chandigarh, Dr. Sandeep Pal offers:

• Endoscopy (EGD) for accurate diagnosis

• Esophageal motility studies for swallowing issues

• Tailored medication plans for reflux and cramps

• Lifestyle and dietary counseling for long-term relief

Preventing Hiatal Hernia Symptoms

Dietary Adjustments

• Avoid overeating and large meals

• Reduce acidic and spicy food intake

• Maintain a healthy weight to lower pressure on the abdomen

Lifestyle Habits

• Quit smoking

• Practice stress management (yoga, meditation)

• Avoid tight clothing around the waist

FAQs About Hiatal Hernia

1. Can a hiatal hernia cause chest pain similar to heart problems?

Yes. Some patients experience chest discomfort that mimics heart issues. Always rule out cardiac causes first.

2. How long does recovery take after hiatal hernia surgery?

Most patients recover within 2–4 weeks, though dietary modifications may continue longer.

3. Is there a natural way to manage mild hiatal hernia?

Yes, lifestyle changes — such as eating smaller meals and elevating your bed — can help control symptoms.

4. Can hiatal hernia cause difficulty breathing?

In larger hernias, the stomach pushes against the lungs, causing shortness of breath.

5. Does hiatal hernia always cause acid reflux?

Not always. Some patients may only experience painful stomach cramps or bloating.

6. Can hiatal hernia worsen during pregnancy?

Yes, increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can aggravate hernias.

7. What is the difference between gastritis and hiatal hernia?

Gastritis treatmen focuses on stomach lining inflammation, while hiatal hernia is structural.

8. How do I know if my pain on the right side of the stomach is from hernia or gallstones?

An endoscopy or ultrasound helps differentiate the two.

9. What foods should I avoid with a hiatal hernia?

Caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and chocolate worsen reflux.

10. Is hiatal hernia common in older adults?

Yes, risk increases with age due to muscle weakening.

Conclusion: Look Beyond Acid Reflux for Lasting Relief

If you’ve been struggling with acid reflux, painful stomach cramps, or unexplained pain on the right side of your stomach, don’t assume it’s just indigestion. It could be a hiatal hernia.

With advanced tools like endoscopy test in Chandigarh esophageal motility studies, and expert medical care, Dr. Sandeep Pal helps patients achieve long-term relief.

👉 Don’t wait — schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward recovery.