Hiatal hernia

The diaphragm, a flat muscle, separates the thoracic and abdominal cavities. The esophagus passes through an opening in the diaphragm, called the esophageal hiatus, to enter the abdominal cavity. A hiatal hernia occurs when organs normally located in the abdominal cavity (primarily the stomach) protrude into the thoracic cavity through an enlarged esophageal hiatus. This condition is common in individuals over 50 years old, with a higher incidence in women and obese individuals. The main symptoms include heartburn and acid reflux, with severe cases experiencing dysphagia.