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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
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