Hiatal hernias, a condition in which part of the stomach organ pushes up through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity, causes both discomfort and digestive issues. Many people who have been diagnosed with this condition often wonder about the origins of it, and whether their family background could have contributed to its development. But, are hiatal hernias hereditary at all? Understanding the various causes and factors that contribute to hiatal hernias is important for prevention, detection, and symptom management.
Are Hiatal Hernias Hereditary in Some Way?
Before exploring the hereditary nature of hiatal hernias, it’s important to first understand what they are. As mentioned, a hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach pushes up through the hiatus, or the opening of the diaphragm. The diaphragm is the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdomen. There are two main types of hiatal hernias: a sliding hiatal hernia and a paraesophageal hiatal hernia.
Sliding hiatal hernias occur when part of the stomach slides up into the chest cavity through the hiatus. Paraesophageal hiatal hernias tend to be more serious, as in these cases, part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm and rests next to the esophagus. This can put pressure on it and essentially “strangle” the stomach.
So, Do Hiatal Hernias Run in Families?
Thus far, research into hiatal hernias hasn’t proven that this condition runs in families, but several studies suggest possible genetic influence. Genetics might predispose individuals to conditions that later lead to hiatal hernias. For example, some genetic disorders weaken the body’s connective tissues (such as Marfan Syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), which makes it far easier for the stomach to herniate through the diaphragm.
It’s also important to take a look at the structure of the diaphragm itself. Some individuals inherit a weakness in their body’s diaphragm, or may have an unusually large hiatus. Both of these characteristics can make developing a hiatal hernia more likely.
A person’s family history may also be an indicator of future health conditions. If one’s parents or siblings have hiatal hernias, the odds of developing the condition may be somewhat higher among other family members. So, while hiatal hernias are not directly hereditary, there may be family traits that make developing them more likely.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hiatal Hernias
Some people with a hiatal hernia may not experience any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include heartburn, regurgitation of food or liquids, acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, chest or abdominal pain, and shortness of breath. In less common situations, hiatal hernias can also lead to vomiting blood or passing dark red or black stools.
Diagnosing a hiatal hernia usually involves imaging tests, such as endoscopy or a barium swallow, which is a specialized X-ray procedure. These diagnostic tests help doctors visualize the stomach’s condition and determine whether any herniation has occurred.
Who is Most at Risk for Hiatal Hernias?
Hiatal hernias can affect a wide range of people, but certain groups are at a higher risk of developing this condition. Older adults, for example, are more likely to develop hiatal hernias than those under 50. This is because, as people age, the muscles and tissues that support the stomach and diaphragm weaken.
Overweight individuals are also more likely than others to develop hiatal hernias, due to the excess pressure that more body weight places on the abdomen. The risk associated with weight gain also includes pregnancy, being that the growing fetus gradually pushes the stomach upward as the months pass.
Lifestyle factors such as smoking or frequent strain due to physical exertion may contribute to herniation of the stomach. Poor eating habits, such as overeating and lying down after large meals can also be a risk factor.
Finally, individuals who have undergone abdominal or chest surgeries, or those who have experienced significant injuries, may have a weakened diaphragm which increases their risk of developing a hiatal hernia.
What is the Root Cause of Hiatal Hernias?
The root cause of hiatal hernias is not entirely understood, but there are several unique elements that can contribute to the development of this condition. These contributors can include:
- Diaphragmatic Weakness: A weak diaphragm can make it easier for the upper part of the stomach to herniate into the chest cavity.
- Large Hiatus: Some individuals have an abnormally large hiatus, which makes it easier for hiatal hernias to develop.
- Increased Abdominal Pressure: Obesity or pregnancy can cause increased pressure on the body’s abdominal cavity, which may begin pushing the stomach upward through the hiatus.
- Frequent Coughing, Vomiting, or Traumatic Injuries: Coughing, vomiting, and various injuries can raise abdominal pressure, which contributes to the development of a hiatal hernia.
Often, several factors at a time can cause or exacerbate hiatal hernias. However, practically anyone can develop this condition, so it’s wise for everyone to be mindful of their digestive health.
What is the Average Age for Developing a Hiatal Hernia?
Hiatal hernias can develop at any age, but they’re most likely to occur in individuals who are over 50. Because older people often experience muscle weakness and may be living with serious health conditions, hiatal hernias strike in this demographic more often than in younger age brackets.
How Hereditary Are Hiatal Hernias?
Are hiatal hernias hereditary or the result of lifestyle choices? The answer may lie somewhere in between these groups of factors. Hiatal hernias are influenced by a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Some scientific evidence supports the idea of genetic predisposition, but lifestyle factors and existing health disorders can also play an important role in hiatal hernia development. Understanding one’s risk factors can help influence health decisions when it comes to prevention, detection, and effective treatment.
If you have a family history of hiatal hernias or you’re experiencing symptoms of this condition, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional. Reach out to Arizona Premier Surgery and book an appointment for a digestive health evaluation.
SOURCES
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8098-hiatal-hernia
https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/hiatal-hernia
https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia
