A hiatal hernia occurs when tissue or an organ pushes through the diaphragm. The diaphragm is basically a membrane that holds the organs of the abdomen in place, it separates them from the heart and lungs in the chest cavity. The common symptoms for Hiatal Hernia- -Shortness of breath -Abdominal(chest) pain -Difficulty swallowing -Heartburn -Vomiting of blood If you observe any of those symptoms, then consult a hernia specialist earlier!