Hi, Hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm muscle. Hiatus is an opening in the diaphragm -- the muscular wall separating the chest cavity from the abdomen. Normally, the esophagus (food pipe) goes through the hiatus and attaches to the stomach. In a hiatal hernia a portion of the stomach bulges up into the chest through that opening. Sliding hiatal hernia is more common type of hiatal hernia. It occurs when the stomach and esophagus slide into and out of the chest through the hiatus. Since sliding hernias tend to be small, they usually don’t cause any symptoms and may not require treatment. Usually, if acid reflux and heartburn is present, it can be treated with medications. Surgery is to be considered if medications don’t work. Types of surgery for this condition include: (i) rebuilding weak esophageal muscles. (ii) putting your stomach back in place and making the hiatus smaller. Surgery, when done by means of laparoscopy has better results and less complications. However, hernias can come back after surgery. You can reduce this risk by: staying at a healthy weight, not lifting heavy objects and avoiding strain on the abdominal muscles. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Ashakiran S.