Most hiatal hernias are of the so-called "sliding" type, in which the junction of the esophagus and stomach and part of the stomach protrude into the chest. The junction may reside permanently in the chest, but often it juts into the chest only during a swallow. These hernias can and most often do occur without producing symptoms at all. When they do produce symptoms, they are the typical symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Heartburn, regurgitation, and nausea are common symptoms. Other symptoms can include chest pain or burning and difficulty swallowing. A bloated feeling after meal consumption and shortness of breath sometimes occur.
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