HIATUS HERNIA Meaning and
Definition
-
Hiatus hernia, also known as hiatal hernia, refers to a common medical condition that occurs when a part of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. The hiatus is a small opening in the diaphragm that allows the esophagus to pass through and connect to the stomach. However, in cases of hiatus hernia, the stomach bulges upward through this opening into the chest area.
There are two main types of hiatus hernia: sliding hiatus hernia and paraesophageal hiatus hernia. Sliding hiatus hernia is the most prevalent type and occurs when the junction between the esophagus and stomach (called gastroesophageal junction) and a part of the stomach itself move up into the chest. The paraesophageal hiatus hernia, less common and more severe, involves the stomach protruding through the diaphragm next to the esophagus, potentially leading to complications such as organ strangulation or obstruction.
The exact causes of hiatus hernia are not well understood, but certain factors can increase the risk, including obesity, aging, pregnancy, and increased pressure on the abdomen due to persistent coughing or lifting heavy objects. Symptoms of hiatus hernia can include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling of fullness or bloating.
Treatment for hiatus hernia varies depending on the severity of symptoms. Mild cases can be managed with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, avoiding triggers that exacerbate symptoms, and taking over-the-counter medications to reduce acid reflux. However, in more severe cases or when complications arise, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the hernia and prevent further damage.
Common Misspellings for HIATUS HERNIA
- giatus hernia
- biatus hernia
- niatus hernia
- jiatus hernia
- uiatus hernia
- yiatus hernia
- huatus hernia
- hjatus hernia
- hkatus hernia
- hoatus hernia
- h9atus hernia
- h8atus hernia
- hiztus hernia
- histus hernia
- hiwtus hernia
- hiqtus hernia
- hiarus hernia
- hiafus hernia
- hiagus hernia
Etymology of HIATUS HERNIA
The term "hiatus hernia" has its roots in Latin and English.
The word "hiatus" comes from Latin and means "opening" or "gap". In anatomy, the term is used to refer to a natural gap or opening between body parts.
The word "hernia" also comes from Latin, derived from the word "hernius" meaning "rupture" or "tear". It refers to a condition where an organ or tissue protrudes through an opening or weak spot in the surrounding muscles or connective tissue.
In the case of a hiatus hernia, it specifically refers to a condition where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the opening in the diaphragm called the hiatus and moves up into the chest cavity.
