Hernia of the esophagus is a disease associated with the widening of the esophagus of the diaphragm and the sprain of the ligaments that connect the esophagus and stomach. As a result, bile and gastric juice enter the esophagus, an inflammatory process develops and the integrity of the mucous membrane is disturbed. In the absence of treatment after 7 to 10 years, the hernia can go into a malignant state, that is, cancer of the esophagus. We learn the opinion of gastroenterologists about the causes and methods of treatment of the hernia of the esophagus.
Causes of hiatal hernia
Specialists identify the following factors, predisposing to the appearance of a hernia of the esophagus:
- abdominal injury;
- chronic diseases of the abdominal cavity;
- problems with the intestines, constipation;
- heavy physical exertion, mainly heavy lifting;
- bad habits (overeating, fast food, smoking, alcohol abuse).
In some cases, the hernia of the esophagus is due to natural age changes, when there is thinning and disruption of the integrity of connective tissues, which is why the elderly are most often affected by the hernia of the esophagus.
Medicamentous treatment of a hernia of the esophagus
When treating the hernia of the esophagus with drugs, 5 groups of drugs are used:
- Antacids, neutralizing hydrochloric acid in the stomach (Almagel, Maalox, Fosfalugel).
- Prokinetics , contributing to the restoration of the proper movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract (Domeamide, Motilium, Cerucal).
- Proton pump inductors that reduce the production of hydrochloric acid (Omeprazole, Nolpaz).
- Blockers of histamine receptors, which also reduce the production of hydrochloric acid (Roxatidine, Ranitidine, Famotidine).
- Bile acids, neutralizing bile, which has fallen into the stomach (Ursofalk, Urocholum).
Surgery for hernia of the esophagus is not always necessary, but there are cases when it is necessary. If complications arise in the hernia of the esophagus (infringement, bleeding, etc.), surgical intervention is recommended. Four types of operations to eliminate the hernia, each of which is aimed at directing the hernial protrusion into the abdominal cavity and suturing the damaged portion of the diaphragm are developed.
Folk methods of treatment of a hernia of the esophagus
Along with medicamentous preparations at treatment of a hernia of an esophagus in house conditions natural products (grasses, vegetables and so forth) are applied.
So, to eliminate heartburn used:
- infusion of flax seeds;
- carrot juice;
- potato juice;
- gentian tea.
When bloating helps:
- infusion of camomile flowers;
- tea with fennel and peppermint;
- infusion of cumin seeds.
The eructation can be eliminated by taking:
- cranberry juice with honey and aloe;
- infusion of ashberry colors.
Traditional medicine has in its arsenal a variety of tools that help with constipation, including:
- infusion of bark of buckthorn ;
- infusion of Senna;
- decoction of rhubarb root;
- stewed dried apricots and prunes;
- salad from boiled beet with vegetable oil.
Diet in the hernia of the esophagus
As with any disease of the digestive tract, effective treatment with a hernia of the esophagus is impossible without a special diet. Nutrition patient should be frequent, small portions. From the diet should be deleted:
- fatty foods;
- cabbage;
- beans;
- mushrooms;
- products from yeast dough;
- spicy dishes;
- sour berries and fruits;
- carbonated drinks;
- alcohol.
Attention! There is a series of special physical actions recommended for hernia of the esophagus. Exercises are aimed at strengthening and relaxing the abdominal muscles. LFK includes movements with retraction and protrusion of the abdomen, inclinations, twists of the trunk, etc. Experts advise that when performing a complex to control breathing.