Not every diaphragmatic hernia forms during birth; some occur due to accident, age, or obesity or gastric acid intensity. A hiatal hernia, like other diaphragmatic hernias, occurs when a hole appears in the diaphragm. An abdominal organ such as the stomach slips into the middle compartment of the chest. This can result in gastroesophageal reflux disease and laryngopharyngeal reflux. Symptoms include chest pains and difficulty swallowing. Surgery can also lead to the formation of these hernias.

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