Can hiatal hernia affect my breathing?

Yes: A hiatal hernia is the stomach protruding into the chest cavity, which can affect one's breathing.

Yes: Large hiatal hernias can cause shortness of breath. The only solution for these large hernias is surgical repair. There are often other conditions however often present such a asthma or emphysema that can compound breathing problems. Usually, a large hiatal hernia can be diagnosed with an upper GI contrast study called an esophagram and upper GI series.

I doubt it: Usually hiatal hernia are small and they can cause pain mainly from the feeling of heart burn as stomach acid is regurgitated in to the esophagus . A bigger hernia called paraesophagial hernia through which abdominal content have possibly entered the chest cavity or real diaphragmantic hernias they could affect berating by reducing lung capacity.

Yes: The hernia can be large enough to displace lung tissue and inhibit deep breaths. But if you are short of breath see your doctor.

Hiatal hernia: You have a hiatal hernia. This is a very treatable abnormality. Your doctor will treat your symptoms and follow with you. If you are feeling well with medications then he/she will follow. As you age you may require more intervention. You may need a diagnostic study. You will need to manage your weight and to exercise. Watch what you eat. Be well.