Ailments & ConditionsYour Health

Common Types of Hernias

Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is a type of hernia that happens when the stomach bulges through a weakened point in your diaphragm. This muscle is responsible for separating the abdominal organs and the lungs. People with this condition tend to have some issues with acid reflux. Other possible signs include heartburn, trouble swallowing, abdominal or chest pain, shortness of breath, or vomiting. However, many cases show no symptoms, especially when the hiatal hernias are small. Some people develop a hernia as aging, while others are born with it. There are four types of hiatal hernial, based on the location of the bulge. These include type 1, type 2, type 3, and type 4. Up to 95 percent of the reported cases are type 1. This means the stomach is still in position, but the part where the stomach meets the esophagus slides above your diaphragm. [4]