What Is a Hiatal Hernia?
Reviewed: Dr. Mera
8. Complications
As mentioned previously, hiatal hernias are usually asymptomatic. However, some complications can produce symptoms. Some esophageal complications include esophagitis or the inflammation of the esophagus, esophageal ulcers, and esophageal erosions (i.e. erosions of the lining of the stomach where it is constricted by the hiatus).
Rarely, these complications can cause intermittent bleeding that can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. Furthermore, in patients with paraesophageal hernias, the incarceration (strangulation) of hiatal hernias can occur (rare). This condition leads to acute onset of vomiting and pain.
Advertisement
