Why does hiatus hernia cause indigestion?

The upper stomach can slide through the opening in the diaphragm where the oesophagus passes into the abdomen. This may weaken the barrier that normally helps keep acidic stomach contents down. Acid can then irritate the oesophagus, producing burning behind the breastbone, an acidic taste, burping, fullness or discomfort after eating. Indigestion is a common presentation of Hiatus Hernia, but indigestion also has many other possible causes.

Notice whether symptoms follow large meals, rich foods, alcohol, coffee, lying down or bending. Smaller meals and avoiding lying flat soon after eating may reduce reflux. If symptoms keep returning, a clinician can review medicines that may aggravate reflux and discuss acid-reducing treatment or further assessment when appropriate.

Arrange a medical review for new, persistent or worsening indigestion, especially if it interferes with eating or sleep. Seek urgent care for chest pressure, breathlessness, fainting, vomiting blood, black stools, trouble swallowing, or unexplained weight loss. Chest symptoms need prompt assessment because reflux and heart problems can feel similar.

Ask whether your pattern fits reflux from a hiatus hernia, whether any medicines could be contributing, and whether testing is needed for ongoing swallowing difficulty or persistent symptoms. Ask how to take any recommended acid-reducing medicine and what changes should prompt earlier review.