Hiatal hernia pain in women is typically located in several specific areas related to the anatomical impact of the condition:
- Chest : Many women experience a burning sensation or discomfort in the chest area, often mistaken for heartburn or even heart-related issues. This pain is usually due to acid reflux caused by the hernia and may worsen after eating large meals or lying down.
- Upper Abdomen : Pain is commonly felt just below the ribcage in the upper abdomen. This discomfort is caused by pressure on the diaphragm and surrounding tissues as part of the stomach protrudes upward. The pain may be dull, persistent, or cramping.
- Back : Some women report referred pain in the mid-back or between the shoulder blades, although this is less common.
- Throat : Discomfort or a lump sensation in the throat can occur, especially after eating, due to acid reflux irritating the esophagus.
These pain locations correspond to the hernia pushing part of the stomach through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, affecting the gastroesophageal junction and causing acid reflux symptoms
. Additional symptoms that often accompany the pain include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, bloating, belching, shortness of breath, nausea, and vomiting
. Women over 50, pregnant women, and those with obesity or chronic coughing are at higher risk of developing hiatal hernias and experiencing these symptoms
. If a woman experiences chest pain or discomfort in these areas, especially if severe or persistent, medical evaluation is important to rule out other conditions and to manage the hernia effectively
