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hiatal hernia
noun
: protrusion of part of the stomach upward into the chest cavity through the passage in the diaphragm for the esophagus usually with movement of the opening of the esophagus into the stomach to a position above the diaphragm
called also hiatus hernia
Examples of hiatal hernia in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
However, Mount Sinai advises individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or a hiatal hernia to avoid peppermint tea.
—Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY, 15 Feb. 2024
In contrast, a hiatal hernia may cause heartburn, indigestion, regurgitation, and upper abdominal or chest pains.
—Amanda Gardner, Health, 29 Oct. 2023
How To Relieve Heartburn That Won't Go Away A Quick Review
Heartburn may indicate health conditions like a hiatal hernia, GERD, or stomach ulcers.
—Mark Gurarie, Health, 6 Aug. 2023
This is the most common type of hiatal hernia.
—Jennifer Whitlock, Rn, Msn, Fn, Verywell Health, 8 Mar. 2023
Because Scott and Bernard are older (there is an explanation for Bernard aging), there are humorous references to acid reflux and a hiatal hernia.
—Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 15 Nov. 2022
The unusual person with symptoms from a sliding hiatal hernia is usually treated medically.
—Dr. Keith Roach, oregonlive, 15 Aug. 2022
Schedule an appointment with your physician to rule out a hiatal hernia, constipation, or other GI issues.
—Ali Nolan, SELF, 6 Dec. 2021
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'hiatal hernia.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
circa 1944, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near hiatal hernia
Cite this Entry
“Hiatal hernia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hiatal%20hernia. Accessed 24 May. 2024.
Medical Definition
hiatal hernia
noun
variants
also hiatus hernia
: herniation of an abdominal organ
specifically
: protrusion of part of the stomach upward into the chest cavity through the passage in the diaphragm for the esophagus that is typically accompanied with movement of the opening of the esophagus into the stomach to a position above the diaphragm and that may be asymptomatic or be accompanied by symptoms typical of gastroesophageal reflux (such as heartburn, belching, or bloating).
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