358: Unpacking Hiatal Hernias: Physical and Emotional Roots
Ancient Health Podcast
Deep Dive
What is a hiatal hernia and what are its primary symptoms?
A hiatal hernia occurs when the upper portion of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm's opening, known as the cardiac sphincter. Symptoms include chronic acid reflux, difficulty swallowing, Barrett's esophagus, food getting stuck in the throat, chronic throat clearing, heart palpitations, chest tightness, and chronic indigestion.
Why does a hiatal hernia affect heart function?
The diaphragm assists the heart by helping it contract and expand during breathing. When a hiatal hernia tightens the diaphragm, it restricts this movement, forcing the heart to work harder. This can lead to heart palpitations, arrhythmias, and chest tightness.
What role do infections play in hiatal hernias?
Chronic infections in the stomach, gallbladder, spleen, or pancreas can tighten the connective tissue around these organs, restricting the diaphragm's movement. This tightening can exacerbate a hiatal hernia and strain the heart.
How can breathwork help manage a hiatal hernia?
Breathwork, particularly diaphragmatic breathing, helps relax and expand the diaphragm, reducing pressure on the heart and stomach. This can alleviate symptoms of a hiatal hernia by promoting relaxation and easing the strain on the esophageal sphincter.
What emotional factors are linked to hiatal hernias?
Emotions like low self-worth, chronic stress, and heightened fight-or-flight responses can tighten the stomach and diaphragm, contributing to hiatal hernias. Eastern medicine associates these emotions with stomach dysfunction and weakened digestive health.
What are some non-surgical techniques to address hiatal hernias?
Non-surgical techniques include hiatal hernia release through applied kinesiology, physical therapy, or rebounding on a trampoline after drinking water. These methods aim to gently massage and pull the stomach back into place.
Which herbs are recommended for managing hiatal hernias?
Herbs like Morinda Supreme, Golden Thread Supreme, aloe vera, slippery elm, and ginseng are recommended. They help cleanse infections, nourish the stomach, and improve digestion, which can alleviate symptoms of hiatal hernias.
How does low stomach acid contribute to hiatal hernias?
Low stomach acid allows infections, parasites, and bacteria to thrive in the stomach, leading to inflammation and tightening of the diaphragm. This can exacerbate a hiatal hernia and contribute to digestive issues like leaky gut syndrome.
What is the connection between hiatal hernias and anemia?
Chronic infections and inflammation in the stomach and spleen, often associated with hiatal hernias, can impair red blood cell production. This, combined with heart strain, can contribute to conditions like anemia.
Why is emotional work important in treating hiatal hernias?
Emotional work, such as neurofeedback or neuroemotional technique (NET), addresses the psychological stress and low self-worth that can tighten the stomach and diaphragm. Reprogramming these emotions helps the body heal and reduces the recurrence of hiatal hernias.
- Definition of hiatal hernia
- Common symptoms: swallowing difficulties, acid reflux, chronic throat clearing
- Often overlooked condition
- Potential impact on the esophagus and heart
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