hiatal hernia : Change Your Lifestyle and Control Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernia (often referred to as hiatus hernia) is the protrusion (or hernia) of the upper part of the stomach into the thorax through a tear or weakness in the diaphragm

Hiatal hernias may develop in people of all ages and both sexes, although it is considered to be a condition of middle age. In fact, the majority of otherwise normal people past the age of 50 have small hiatal hernias.

Lifestyle adjustments to control a hiatal hernia

If you're overweight, losing weight alone may relieve your symptoms.

If you smoke, quit.

Do not wear tight clothes around your chest or abdomen (belly). They put pressure on your stomach.

Elevate the head of your bed 6 inches by placing blocks under the bed frame. Gravity will help prevent stomach acid from moving up into your esophagus as you sleep. Using a foam wedge to raise your mattress also may help. Don't try to use pillows, which tend to increase pressure on your abdomen.

It is important to avoid large meals. Eating small, frequent, bland meals to keep pressure on the esophageal sphincter.

Do not eat for at least 2 hours before going to sleep.

Avoid spicy and acidic foods.

Do not bend over or lie down after eating.

By Uthkusa Gamanayake