The diaphragm is a kind of septum separating the organs of the abdominal space from the sternum. It prevents their protrusion, as well as casting the contents of the stomach into the lumen of the esophagus. If the functions of the ligamentous apparatus are disturbed, a hernia of the diaphragm arises - the symptoms and treatment of this pathology correspond to the degree of progression of the disease. As a rule, conservative therapy is enough, but in severe cases, a surgical operation is performed.
Symptoms of a hernia of the diaphragm
The initial stages of the disease are not accompanied by severe symptoms, so they remain unnoticed. In such situations, a hernia can be detected accidentally, when performing a diagnosis about another pathology.
The late stages of the development of the disease are characterized by such clinical manifestations:
- heartburn;
- dry persistent cough;
- eructation;
- heaviness in epigastrium;
- bloating of the intestine;
- constipation;
- pain behind the sternum and abdomen;
- impaired swallowing of food;
- hiccough ;
- burning in the tongue.
Therapy and removal of hernia diaphragm
Conservative treatment of the described ailment consists in developing an integrated approach that includes:
- taking medications ( antacids , proton pump inhibitors, prokinetics, H2-blockers of histamine receptors);
- use of folk remedies;
- constant adherence to a strict diet;
- change of lifestyle, rejection of bad habits;
- performance of respiratory gymnastics;
- exercise therapy.
Only simultaneous application of all these methods allows to achieve persistent improvements and slow the progression of the hernia.
If traditional therapy has proved ineffective or pathology has been detected already at a late stage, surgical treatment is recommended:
- fixation of the stomach in the peritoneal cavity;
- suturing hernia;
- fundoplication;
- strengthening of the diaphragm-esophageal ligament and other techniques.