7Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of developing a hiatal hernia. Harmful substances in tobacco products would weaken the muscles of your diaphragm in the long run. As a result, the stomach can bulge through this part more easily. More seriously, smoking would dull the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen difficulty swallowing. These effects can be long-lasting and might become permanent if you are a heavy smoker. It is better to stop smoking to reduce the risk and prevent the hernia from becoming a persistent source of grief. [7]















