Hiatal Hernia

Specialists at Houston Methodist Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Health treat simple to complex cases of upper intestinal bulging with expertise. Our gastroenterologists use top-rated nonsurgical and surgical procedures to improve your quality of life.

A hiatal (gap) hernia (protrusion) is a type of hernia that involves the upper part of your stomach, the large muscle responsible for breathing (diaphragm) and an abnormal opening in the diaphragm. A hiatal hernia occurs when certain risk factors allow the stomach to bulge through the diaphragm’s hole. People aged 50 or older most often experience this gastrointestinal (GI) condition because the muscles of the diaphragm can weaken with age.

Certain exercises, such as holding your breath or stretching, can strengthen the diaphragmatic muscles and repair this common condition. If symptoms do not improve and become severe, consult an Underwood Center gastroenterologist.

Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked No. 7 by U.S. News & World Report for Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. U.S. News & World Report has also named Houston Methodist Hospital the No. 1 hospital in Texas every year since the award began and one of the nation’s best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital. 

Expert Hiatal Hernia Diagnosis & Care

Our experts quickly and accurately diagnose all types of hernias — including hiatal hernias. Medication and minimally invasive surgery often treat the symptoms of hiatal hernia. If medicines and lifestyle measures do not help control symptoms, you may need surgery.

Underwood Center gastroenterologists are experts in the most advanced hernia procedures, fundoplication and laparoscopic surgery. Our goal is to close your hiatal hernia, tighten the opening in your diaphragm and prevent recurrence.

Hiatal Hernia Associated Conditions We Treat

The occurrence of a hole in your diaphragm can lead to associated conditions where stomach acid backflows into that hole. Hiatal hernia can also mimic conditions with similar symptoms. Our diagnosis can rule out or confirm the following related conditions:

• Gallstones 
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 
• Heartburn 
• Ulcer