Thank you for your query. Hiatal hernia is when abdominal organs push through a defect in the diaphragm, into the chest cavity. Based on the location, size and organs being compressed, symptoms vary from breathing difficulty, bloating, indigestion to compromise in blood circulation to the lungs, heart brain and other organs. It may also lead to pooling of blood in the peripherals and cause increased pressure locally. The brain gets compromised quicker it s blood supply has to work against gravity. Mild temporary compromise can cause dizziness, fainting spells, headaches. Severe compromise can lead to stroke in the brain. Compression of the lung would result in reduced lung capacity which increases the strain on the heart. The heart itself may be compressed which compromises its blood flow and adds to the strain. The feeling of mucus on your throat could be due to the blood and chest organs being pushed over your trachea. When the symptoms have become notable and bothersome, interfering with your routine life,.it is high you have it checked out. If the hernia has enlarged or if other underlying cardiac pathology are detected, prompt treatment will prevent complications. Surgery to correct the defect in the diaphragm may be necessary if that is the cause. I recommend seeing your physician at the earliest. Expect to have a full cardiovascular evaluation in addition to a CT scan or an MRI to view the status of the hernia. Take your old reports along. A comparison will help to note the progress. Severe chest pain, giddiness, unexplained vomiting, profuse sweating, breathing difficulty warrants a visit to the ER. In the meantime, elevate your upper body while you sleep. Eat smaller and frequent meals. Try to reduce weight if you are overweight, avoid tight fitting clothes, and maintain good posture while sitting. Hope this helps. Please get back to us should you need further clarification. Wish you good health P