How is a hiatal hernia diagnosed?

X-RAY, Endoscopy,etc: A hiatal hernia is an enlargement of the hole in the diaphragm thru which the esophagus passes to enter the abdominal cavity. This commonly leads to the stomach "yo-yo-ing" up into the chest, which may cause gerd (reflux). This can be seen by ct scan and by upper endoscopy.

Contrast study: Usually symptoms of reflux (heartburn) prompts evaluation. Upper GI contrast study and upper endoscopy are the typical methods to diagnose a hiatal hernia.

By EGD, UGI, or CT: Usually hiatal hernias cause some symptoms that prompt an EGD (endoscopy) which visualizes the hernia. An upper GI study (UGI) involves x-rays taken as you drink contrast. Or sometimes they are picked up incidentally on a CT performed for a different reason. If you don't have symptoms related to the hernia, then surgery may not be necessary.

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.