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 in the throat that causes pain and difficulty swallowing. Most spasms are spontaneous and short-lived and can occur when a person drinks a very hot or cold liquid. Some people, however, experience chronic or frequent esophageal spasms that significantly affect their ability to eat and drink comfortably. Treatment beyond simple prevention of triggers is unnecessary for mild spasms, but a chronic case should be evaluated and treated by a physician. A doctor may suggest medications, diet and lifestyle changes, and occasionally surgery to help prevent future esophageal spasms.
It’s not known what exactly causes an esophageal spasm, but several risk factors have been identified. Occasional, mild spasms are more likely to occur when a person is experiencing acute heartburn or high stress. Hot or cold foods or drinks can cause sudden spasms when they contact the esophageal muscles in the throat. Many people who experience chronic esophageal spasm also suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition that causes frequent heartburn, chest pain, and food regurgitation. There is also evidence to suggest that some cases of esophageal spasms are related to nerve problems in or near the throat.
The symptoms of an esophageal spasm can be scary because they tend to come on very suddenly. A severe spasm causes immediate pain and chest tightness, which can resemble the feeling of an impending heart attack. A person may find it impossible to swallow during and immediately following a spasm, and food may be regurgitated into the mouth. A few minutes after the attack, it may feel like an object is stuck in the throat.
A person experiencing a single esophageal spasm probably doesn’t need to see a doctor unless pain and swallowing difficulties persist for more than a few minutes. If esophageal problems become more frequent, it’s generally a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor. A doctor may ask about symptoms and perform a thorough physical exam to try to identify the cause of the spasms. Additional tests such as X-rays and endoscopy may be needed if spasms and heartburn are chronic nuisances.
Most doctors advise patients to learn what triggers their occasional spasms and take steps to avoid them. Simple lifestyle changes, such as allowing coffee to go cold or avoiding cold ice cream, are enough for many people to prevent future spasms. If your esophageal problems are related to heartburn, a doctor might suggest avoiding spicy dishes, exercising more, and taking over-the-counter acid reducers during episodes. A person who has chronic spasms and GERD may need to take prescription medications daily. In very severe cases, surgery to cut and relax the esophageal muscles may be the best treatment option.
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