Symptoms Of A Hiatal Hernia

Burping

If individuals have a hiatal hernia, they might find themselves experiencing frequent burping and belching. This might occur even if they haven't made any significant changes to their diet or what they drink. Patients might find foods that don't usually make them burp have led to burping, or they continue burping for much longer than they usually do. Burping occurs when individuals expel air from their stomach by pushing it through their mouth. The condition is generally related to the distending or expansion of the stomach because they've swallowed too much air. When individuals belch, the release of air reduces the distention. A hiatal hernia might lead to burping if there's a backflow of stomach contents. Belching most commonly occurs after individuals eat or drink something too quickly, drink carbonated beverages, or experience anxiety. Some individuals might also belch even if their abdomen doesn't have an excess amount of air in it. This tends to be due to using burping as a tool or habit to reduce discomfort in the abdomen.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, is another symptom that might occur due to the backflow of acid and stomach contents. It can also be a symptom of many other illnesses. If individuals often experience shortness of breath, they should see a doctor to have the cause evaluated. If shortness of breath is so severe that individuals feel like they cannot breathe at all, they should seek emergency medical treatment.

Some individuals also refer to shortness of breath as a feeling of being unable to get enough air, an intense tightening feeling in the chest, difficulty breathing, feeling as though they're being suffocated, or feeling an intense hunger for air. In healthy individuals, shortness of breath can be brought on by strenuous exercise, high altitudes, and extreme temperatures. But if individuals don't have these factors and experience shortness of breath, they're likely dealing with a medical issue. Patients who experience shortness of breath that comes on suddenly and severely should talk to a doctor right away.