12 Symptoms of a Hiatal Hernia

2. Regurgitation

Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter prevents the stomach contents from entering the esophagus. However, a hiatal hernia can cause the sphincter to weaken, allowing materials from the stomach to flow backward into the back of the throat. Nausea doesn't typically accompany regurgitation, though it may be a separate symptom. In some cases, it is possible to regurgitate a tasteless fluid that contains mucus and undigested food, but regurgitation of sour or bitter liquid is the most common.