Hiatal Hernia
What can be done to prevent the condition?
A person can decrease his or her risk of hiatal hernia by:
staying at a healthy weight
limiting smoking and alcohol
eating a high fiber diet
not straining during bowel movements
using proper body mechanics, such as bending at the knees, during heavy
lifting
wearing a seatbelt correctly
following sports safety guidelines for children, adolescents, and adults
Some causes of hiatal hernia cannot be prevented.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Hiatal hernias can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is chronic heartburn from stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Ulcers or irritation of the lining of the esophagus and upper stomach can also occur. Strangulation of the esophagus or stomach may also occur with this condition.
What are the risks to others?
Hiatal hernia poses no risk to others.
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