A hiatal hernia may be caused by obesity, pregnancy, aging, or previous surgery. About 50% of all people with hiatal hernias do not have any symptoms. For those who do have symptoms, they includ

Causes The cause is unknown, but hiatal hernias may be the result of a weakening of the supporting tissue. Increasing age, obesity, and smoking are known risk factors in adults. Children wi

Symptoms Small hernias Most small hiatal hernias cause no problems. Large hernias Larger hernias may cause the following signs and symptoms when stomach acids back up into your esophagus.