paraösophageal

Paraösophageal refers to a condition involving the esophagus, specifically a type of hiatal hernia. A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach bulges through an opening in the diaphragm, the muscle separating the chest cavity from the abdomen. In a paraösophageal hiatal hernia, a portion of the stomach, or sometimes other abdominal organs, pushes up through the diaphragm alongside the esophagus, rather than the esophagus itself sliding up. This is in contrast to the more common sliding hiatal hernia, where the gastroesophageal junction moves into the chest.

The exact cause of paraösophageal hiatal hernias is not always clear, but factors such as increased abdominal pressure, weakening of the diaphragm muscles, and congenital abnormalities can contribute. While some individuals with paraösophageal hernias may experience no symptoms, others can develop significant issues. These can include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and a feeling of fullness. In some cases, complications such as strangulation or obstruction of the herniated stomach can occur, requiring urgent medical attention. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like barium swallows or endoscopic procedures. Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications, ranging from lifestyle modifications and medication to surgical repair.