How do you know you have a hiatal hernia?

Scope vs X-ray: There are multiple ways to make this diagnosis, but the most common ways are upper endoscopy (a camera inserted into your mouth and stomach) or some type of x-ray. Often you will drink a dye and have an "esophagram" test. Ct scans can often show large hiatal hernias as well, but may not show a small one. Talk to your doctor to see what's best for you.

Reflux: The best way to diagnose is emdoscopy or x-rays.

Symptoms and tests: Most patients notice the symptoms first. Most commonly these are heartburn and occasionally dysphagia, a sensation of food getting stuck on the way down. Regurgitation or throat soreness can occur also. With very large hernias, chest discomfort or pain and difficulty breathing can occur. Diagnosis is made with one or more of the following: barium swallow, upper endoscopy (EGD) and CAT scan.

Tests: Small hiatal hernias usually don't cause any problem, or could be responsible for reflux symptoms. Large hiatal hernias can cause anemia, chest pain, and difficulty eating. They are typically diagnosed with an upper GI contrast study and/or upper endoscopy. The X-ray study can be ordered by primary care, the upper endoscopy is done by a gastroenterologist (GI). Hope this helps!

Requires testing: A hiatal hernia can be suggested by symptoms. The only way to know if you have a hiatal hernia is through testing - a barium swallow or upper endoscopy/egd are two ways to test for it.

Hiatal hernia: Upper GI x-ray and an EGD. The EGD is done by a gastroenterologist. Very common tests which can usually make the diagnosis of a hiatal hernia.