Esophageal disorders include narrowing, webs, spasms, pockets, inflammation, reduced movement, tears, ruptures, and perforations. These can cause difficulty swallowing, pain, and other serious health problems. Treatment varies depending on the disorder. Esophageal disorders include esophageal ring, esophageal web, spasm, diverticula, erosive esophagitis, achalasia, esophageal laceration, ruptures, and perforations. The esophagus is a hollow tube that […]
Esophageal atresia is a rare birth defect where the esophagus ends in a blind pouch, and can also present with abnormal passageways. Symptoms include drooling, choking, and cyanosis. Diagnosis is done via catheter or barium and can be surgically repaired, but complications can arise, including tracheomalacia. Esophageal atresia is a birth defect in which the […]
Esophageal manometry is a test that measures how well the lower esophagus functions, specifically testing the lower esophageal sphincter and esophageal muscles. It is commonly done for GERD, trouble swallowing, heartburn, and chest pains. A thin, pressure-sensitive tube is passed through the nose or mouth into the stomach to measure and record the pressure of […]
Esophageal achalasia causes difficulty in swallowing due to a narrow lower esophageal sphincter. Symptoms include food regurgitation, chest pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Treatment includes medication or surgery. Esophageal achalasia occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) that normally allows food to pass into the stomach is too narrow. Solid foods and liquids have difficulty […]
Diseases of the esophagus can cause difficulty or painful swallowing, and can be caused by mechanical blockages, muscle issues, tumors, or acid reflux. Acid reflux can lead to inflammation, ulcers, and Barrett’s esophagus, which can increase the risk of cancer. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. Esophageal cancer is most common in men who […]
Esophageal spasms cause pain and difficulty swallowing, often triggered by hot or cold drinks. Chronic cases require medical evaluation and treatment, including medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery. Risk factors include heartburn, stress, and GERD. Lifestyle changes can prevent spasms, and medication can help manage symptoms. An esophageal spasm is an abnormal series of muscle contractions […]
Esophageal ulcers are caused by bacterial infections and other conditions like GERD, bulimia, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms include stomach pain, vomiting blood, and black stool. Treatment includes antibiotics, acid reduction, behavioral changes, and sometimes surgery. Early treatment is important to prevent the ulcer from expanding. The esophagus is a long tube that is […]
Esophageal achalasia is a disorder affecting the smooth muscle of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter, causing difficulty swallowing. It can be difficult to diagnose and has no cure, but treatments include lifestyle changes, drugs, pneumatic dilation, and surgery. If these fail, Heller’s myotomy may be performed. Esophageal achalasia, or simply achalasia, is an […]
Esophageal cancer symptoms include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, hoarse voice, weight loss, and cough. Smoking is a common cause. Treatment options include radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery, but early detection is key for successful treatment. Metastasized cancer has a higher death rate. The symptoms of cancer of the esophagus, or a tumor of the esophagus, vary […]
Esophageal motility disorder is a condition where the muscles in the esophagus don’t move in a coordinated way or are too weak, causing difficulty swallowing and regurgitation of food and drink. There are several types, including primary and secondary, with achalasia being the most understood. Treatment is based on easing symptoms, such as eating more […]
Inflammation of the esophagus is often caused by stomach acid or candida fungus and can lead to difficulty swallowing and even esophageal cancer. Treatment involves addressing the root cause and avoiding foods that could further irritate the esophagus. The main cause of inflammation of the esophagus tends to be stomach acid. Sometimes this is introduced […]
GERD and bulimia can cause damage to the esophagus, leading to painful swallowing and discomfort. Ingesting harmful chemicals can also cause inflammation and sores, making it difficult to swallow. Treatment includes medication and avoiding triggers. Early treatment is important to prevent permanent damage. Various conditions can lead to damage to the esophagus, causing painful swallowing […]
Diffuse esophageal spasm causes uncoordinated contractions of the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow food and drink. The cause is unknown, but nerve damage and GERD may contribute. Symptoms include chest pain and a burning sensation. Diagnosis involves a manometry test and further tests such as a CT scan or barium swallow. Treatment includes nitroglycerin […]
Esophageal speech uses gas released through the esophagus to create speech sounds. It is used by those who have had a laryngectomy. The speech is intelligible but requires more effort and is slower than traditional speech. Many people start with esophageal speech and move towards using a prosthetic implant. Esophageal speech is a type of […]
Esophageal ulcers, caused by GERD, anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking, herpes, and human papillomavirus, can cause pain, difficulty swallowing, and recurring problems. Diagnosis is done through X-rays and endoscopes. Treatment includes medications, diet changes, and surgery. Complications include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions. An ulcer of the esophagus is an open sore that forms on the lining […]
Exercising the esophageal sphincter can restore proper function, relieve symptoms of acid reflux and GERD, and prevent backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. It can also help with diffuse esophageal spasms. Combining exercise with other preventative actions can improve overall esophageal health. There are many benefits of esophageal sphincter exercise. The main benefits are […]
