Answer key — Hiatal Hernia True / False

Below are the correct answers and a short explanation for each one.

1. True.

Explanation: A hiatal hernia is when part of the stomach slides up through the opening (hiatus) in the diaphragm into the chest.

2. False.

Correction: The diaphragm is the muscle between the chest and the belly (abdomen), not the legs.

Explanation: The diaphragm separates your chest cavity (where the lungs and heart are) from your belly.

3. True.

Explanation: Extra weight can push on the belly and increase the chance that the stomach slips up through the hiatus.

4. True.

Explanation: Heartburn is a common symptom because stomach acid can move up into the esophagus more easily.

5. False.

Correction: You should eat small meals, not large meals.

Explanation: Large meals fill the stomach and raise belly pressure, which can make symptoms worse.

6. False.

Correction: Surgery is not the first treatment; medicines and lifestyle changes are tried first.

Explanation: Most people start with diet changes and medicines; surgery is used only if those do not help or there are complications.

7. True.

Explanation: Lying down right after eating makes it easier for acid to flow back up. Waiting 2–3 hours helps prevent this.

8. True.

Explanation: Spicy and greasy foods can relax the valve between the stomach and esophagus or irritate the stomach, causing more reflux.

9. True.

Explanation: Heavy lifting and straining raise pressure in the belly and can push the stomach upward or worsen symptoms.

10. True.

Explanation: Gentle walking helps digestion and does not strain the belly, so it can help reduce symptoms.

11. True.

Explanation: The hiatus is the opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus passes to reach the stomach.

12. True.

Explanation: Coffee (caffeine) and some sodas can relax the lower esophageal sphincter or increase acid, making reflux worse for some people.

13. False.

Correction: A hiatal hernia does not always cause symptoms — many people have one and feel fine.

Explanation: Small hiatal hernias are often found by accident and may not cause any problems.

14. False.

Correction: You should wear loose clothing, not tight clothing.

Explanation: Tight clothes press on the belly and can increase reflux and discomfort.

15. True.

Explanation: Smoking weakens the sphincter that keeps stomach acid down and slows healing, so quitting often helps symptoms.

16. True.

Explanation: Smaller meals reduce stomach pressure and lower the chance of reflux.

17. True.

Explanation: Lifting heavy things raises pressure inside your belly, which can force the stomach upward or push acid up.

18. True.

Explanation: If lifestyle changes and medicines don’t control symptoms or if there are complications, surgery may be recommended.

19. True.

Explanation: Raising the head of the bed or using extra pillows keeps the chest higher than the stomach and helps prevent acid from flowing up while you sleep.

20. True.

Explanation: Regurgitation means that food or sour liquid comes back up into the mouth or throat.