The Hiatus hernia reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Hiatus hernia

Hiatus hernia or hiatal hernia is the protrusion (or hernia) of the upper part of the stomach into the thorax through a tear or weakness in the diaphragm.

The symptoms include pains, similar to heartburn, in the chest and upper stomach. Surgery is recommended, although it can have minor side-effects such as increased production of stomach and intestinal gas.

Causes

The following are possible causes or contributing factors for having an hiatal hernia:

• Obesity
• Poor seated posture (such as slouching)
• Frequent coughing
• Straining with constipation
• Frequent bending over or heavy lifting
• Heredity
• Smoking
• Congenital defects

External links

• eMedicine Health - Hiatal Hernia Overview

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