Localization of a diaphragmatic hernia
Diaphragmatic hernias can occur in different parts of the diaphragm. Typically, hernias occur at characteristic weak points of the diaphragm.The most common hernia at the diaphragm is located at the point of passage of the esophagus which is positioned somewhat to the left of the diaphragm. Also the symptoms of this hernia are mostly perceived on the left side because the stomach usually passes through this gap and causes discomfort on the left side. The left side is also more frequently affected by a hernia because the liver is located below the right diaphragm and prevents the abdominal organs on this side from moving upwards. The left diaphragm is also less protected from external violence through accidents or cuts which therefore more often cause a hernia on this side.
Symptoms of diaphragmatic hernia
A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is usually noticed in advance during ultrasound examinations and should be treated immediately after birth. Children who are born with a diaphragmatic hernia are usually conspicuous because breathing is very difficult. In some cases a sufficient breathing is completely impossible due to the diaphragmatic hernia.
If the lung could not develop properly due to the organs in the thoracic cavity, the survival of the child after birth can be endangered or impossible. An acquired diaphragmatic hernia can be noticed by different symptoms. This depends mainly on the extent of the hernia as well as the concomitant diseases and the organs affected.
The most common symptom is a rupture of the stomach through the gap in the diaphragm. This can lead to reflux symptoms (heartburn) and stomach pain. Bad breath and vomiting are also possible in the context of this hernia.
Especially after meals, symptoms of the heart as well as breathing difficulties and pain in the diaphragm can occur. It should be noted that in many cases diaphragmatic hernias go unnoticed and without symptoms. A diaphragmatic hernia causes less often direct pain.
When it does, it occurs in the epigastrium, the area between the stomach and the heart. More frequent, however, is the occurrence of heartburn, which manifests itself as a burning pain behind the breastbone. In the extreme case of the thoracic stomach, in which the stomach slips almost completely into the thorax, the displacement of the heart can also cause pain symptoms similar to a heart attack.
