human
What is a hiatal hernia?
gpt
Hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach slides up into the chest cavity.
human
Is it very painful?
gpt
That depends on the severity. Some patients have to take medications or undergo surgery.
human
How do people know they have it?
Not everyone knows they have it. Most often, doctors can tell.
Hiatal hernia symptoms include frequent heartburn and acid reflux, and chest pain or discomfort. Some patients will cough or feel like they are choking.  If there is bleeding or infection in the hernia, the patient may have very severe and urgent symptoms.