A condition in which part of the stomach sticks upward into the chest, through an opening in the diaphragm. If you suffer from a small hiatal hernia, you may be unaware of it until your doctor discovers it checking for another condition, as it usually won’t cause any problems. However, a large hiatal hernia can cause food and stomach acid to back up into the windpipe.

Although it’s not always clear what causes a hiatal hernia, a weakening of the muscles in the diaphragm can be caused by an injury, constant pressure in the area - from excessive coughing or vomiting or lifting heavy weights.

Your may present symptoms of a hiatal hernia, including: Heartburn, acid reflux, regurgitation of food into the mouth, chest pain or shortness of breath.

Many hiatal hernias won’t require treatment, and can be controlled with lifestyle changes, such as eating smaller meals or avoiding fatty or acidic foods. However, if symptoms persist, you may require medication or even surgery.

For heartburn and acid reflux, a doctor may prescribe antacids to neutralize stomach acid, medications known as H-2-receptor blockers to reduce acid production or even a stronger version to help heal the oesophagus. If these medications are not effective, a surgery to pull the stomach down and heal the hole in the diaphragm may be required.