It is the sliding of a part of the stomach into the chest cavity through the opening in the diaphragm. Stomach hernia in the elderly It usually occurs as a result of weak diaphragm muscles and age-related changes. Reflux may manifest itself with symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty swallowing. Treatment usually includes lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, surgery. It is an important health problem that requires attention in elderly individuals.
What are the symptoms of hiatal hernia in the elderly?
It causes stomach acid to back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and abdomen. A common symptom is sourness and bitter water coming into the mouth as a result of stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Difficulty eating or drinking water, pain when swallowing or a feeling of food getting stuck. Individuals experiencing this condition may experience nausea and rarely vomiting. There is a constant need to burp and a feeling of bloating in the abdomen.
In some cases, stomach hernia in the elderly It can cause chest pain, which can be confused with heart attack symptoms. Constant cough and hoarseness may occur as a result of stomach acid irritating the respiratory tract. Chronic hiccups may be another symptom. Symptoms may often be more pronounced in older individuals. It can seriously affect the quality of daily life. If these symptoms are noticed, it is necessary to consult a gastroenterology surgeon. It is important to determine the necessary treatment methods.
What Causes Hiatal Hernia in the Elderly?
As we get older, the diaphragm muscles weaken, increasing the risk. The diaphragm is the muscle that separates the abdominal and chest cavities. Weakening of these muscles can cause the opening between the stomach and esophagus to widen. With age, connective tissues in the body lose their elasticity and become weak. This situation, stomach hernia in the elderly may lead to its formation. The tendency to gain weight may increase with age, and obesity increases the risk by increasing intra-abdominal pressure. Conditions that cause long-term cough, such as smoking or chronic bronchitis, can lead to increased intra-abdominal pressure. Chronic constipation and straining to go to the toilet also increase the risk by increasing intra-abdominal pressure. People with a family history of this condition are more likely to develop this condition.
Genetic predisposition may increase risk in older individuals. Previous surgical interventions in the abdomen or chest area can cause weakness or damage to the diaphragm, which can lead to Eating heavy meals and eating right before bed causes stomach acid to leak into the esophagus. This may increase the risk. Consumption of alcohol and cigarettes can increase stomach acid and increase the risk. GERD, stomach hernia in the elderly It is closely related to. Stomach acid leaking into the esophagus can weaken the muscles in the lower part of the esophagus and cause
How to Treat Hiatal Hernia in the Elderly?
Stomach hernia in the elderly The first step in treatment is to make some changes in the patient's lifestyle. These changes may help prevent stomach acid reflux. Avoid lying down immediately after meals and stay in an upright position for at least 2-3 hours after meals. Elevating your head and torso while lying down prevents stomach acid from escaping into the esophagus. Avoid fatty, spicy and acidic foods. Make sure to eat small and frequent meals. Medication can help control symptoms by reducing stomach acid.
Antacids neutralize stomach acid and provide instant relief. H2 receptor blockers reduce stomach acid production. Proton pump inhibitors greatly reduce stomach acid production. Surgical intervention in elderly individuals is generally considered when other treatment methods are inadequate. Nissen fundoplication is a procedure performed to repair a hernia and prevent stomach acid from leaking into the esophagus. Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical method. It shortens the patient's recovery time and reduces the risk of complications. In some cases, alternative treatment methods can also be used. Using endoscopic devices, the area between the esophagus and stomach is intervened. Special diet programs provided by nutritionists are applied. Stomach hernia in the elderly may help relieve symptoms.
