Question 1

What are the common hidden symptoms of a hiatal hernia?

Accepted Answer

Beyond classic heartburn, hidden symptoms of a hiatal hernia include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and severe anxiety or panic attacks. These occur because the stomach is physically encroaching on the space designated for the heart and lungs, irritating the vagus nerve. At Root Cause Medical Clinic, we specialize in identifying these 'hidden' indicators. Call (727) 335-0400 for a consultation.

Question 2

Can a hiatal hernia cause heart palpitations and shortness of breath?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is very common. When the stomach slides up through the diaphragm, it can put direct pressure on the heart and restrict the movement of the lungs. This often leads to heart palpitations (especially after eating) and a feeling of not being able to take a full breath. If your cardiac workups are clear but you still feel these symptoms, it's likely a hiatal hernia. Contact us at (727) 335-0400 to learn about our non-surgical corrective approach.

Question 3

Why does a hiatal hernia cause anxiety or panic attacks?

Accepted Answer

The vagus nerve, which regulates the 'rest and digest' response, runs right through the diaphragm alongside the esophagus. When a hiatal hernia occurs, the stomach can compress or irritate this nerve, triggering a 'fight or flight' response in the body. This leads to sudden feelings of panic, impending doom, or chronic anxiety that doesn't respond to typical therapy. Dr. Vikki Petersen's manual therapy helps 'un-trap' the nerve by restoring the stomach to its proper position. Call (727) 335-0400 for help.

Question 4

How is a hiatal hernia treated without surgery at Root Cause Medical Clinic?

Accepted Answer

We use a multi-disciplinary approach called the Root Cause Method. This involves a specialized manual therapy to gently move the stomach back down into its correct anatomical position, clinical nutrition to reduce the internal gas pressure pushing it up, and diaphragm strengthening exercises. This approach has an 85% success rate in providing long-term relief from both obvious and hidden symptoms. Reach out to our Clearwater clinic at (727) 335-0400.

Hiatal Hernia: 4 Hidden Symptoms