Treatment Options for Hiatus Hernia: Medication, Surgery & More

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available depending on the size of the hernia, the severity of symptoms, and how it affects your daily life.

Let’s walk through what’s available—from medication and surgery to lifestyle strategies and alternative therapies.

Medication: Managing Reflux and Inflammation

For most people with a hiatus hernia, the first line of treatment focuses on managing symptoms, especially acid reflux. A hiatus hernia can weaken the valve between the stomach and oesophagus, allowing stomach acid to travel upwards—causing heartburn, regurgitation, and sometimes a chronic cough or sore throat.

Common medications include:

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole – reduce stomach acid and give the oesophagus time to heal.
• H2 blockers – also lower acid levels, but are generally used less than PPIs.
• Antacids – provide short-term relief by neutralising existing acid.

Important to note: While medications like omeprazole are effective, they don’t treat the hernia itself. They only manage the symptoms, and long-term use should always be reviewed with a healthcare professional.

Surgery: When Is an Operation Necessary?

If medication and lifestyle changes aren’t enough, or if the hernia is large (especially a paraesophageal hernia), your specialist may recommend surgery.

The most common procedure is:

• Laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair with fundoplication The stomach is gently repositioned below the diaphragm The opening in the diaphragm (hiatus) is tightened The top of the stomach is wrapped around the oesophagus to reinforce the valve

This is usually done as a minimally invasive keyhole procedure and often allows patients to go home the same or next day.

Surgery is typically considered if:

• You have ongoing reflux despite medication
• The hernia is very large or twisted
• You experience symptoms like breathing issues, anaemia, or vomiting blood

Lifestyle and Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Many people with mild or moderate hiatus hernias find relief through daily habit changes that reduce pressure on the stomach.

Helpful strategies include:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding heavy meals before bedtime
• Elevating the head of your bed by 6–8 inches
• Avoiding trigger foods (e.g. spicy, acidic, fried, or fatty)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding tight clothing around the abdomen

These won’t correct the hernia but can significantly reduce symptoms.

Alternative Treatments: What About Natural Remedies?

A quick internet search for “hiatus hernia remedies” will turn up everything from apple cider vinegar to yoga poses. While some of these approaches may offer temporary symptom relief, very few are supported by strong scientific evidence.

Popular but unproven alternatives:

• Herbal teas and supplements – may soothe symptoms but don’t treat the hernia
• Breathing exercises and posture correction – can support digestion but won’t reposition the stomach
• Chiropractic manipulation – not medically endorsed and should be approached with caution

That said, some calming practices like gentle yoga or breathing techniques may help reduce stress, which in turn can lessen symptom flare-ups.

Always speak to a specialist before trying alternative treatments, especially if your symptoms are severe or changing.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Treatment for You

There’s no single “right” way to treat a hiatus hernia—what works depends on your symptom severity, hernia type, and personal preferences.

Mild symptoms? Start with medication and lifestyle changes.

Persistent reflux or a large hernia? Surgery may be the most effective option.

Curious about alternative remedies? Be cautious, and use them only as a complement to proven care.

Ready to explore your options? Book a consultation with a reflux specialist to get personalised advice and treatment.