The esophagus is a muscular passage that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Acid reflux can cause heartburn and lead to GERD, which can cause damage over time. Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer are also potential complications. Treatment options include medication, endoscopic therapy, laser therapy, and chemotherapy.
The esophagus is the portion of the digestive system that runs from the mouth to the stomach. Sometimes called the esophagus, it is a muscular passage that starts in the throat or pharynx. Located between the windpipe and spine, it passes through the diaphragm and ends at the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle that opens into the upper end of the stomach.
The primary function of the esophagus is to carry ingested food and liquids to the stomach. When a person eats or drinks and swallows, the sphincter at the top of the structure, which is normally closed, opens and lets the material pass. The muscles in the walls of the passage then contract pushing it down; this process is facilitated by the mucus produced by glands along the esophagus to keep it moist. It then passes through the lower sphincter, which relaxes and opens, and enters the stomach.
Sometimes the lower esophageal sphincter opens other than when food is swallowed and allows stomach acid to splash into the esophagus. This is known as acid reflux and typically causes heartburn, a burning sensation in the lower chest that is uncomfortable but not dangerous. When acid reflux becomes chronic, it is called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. GERD is a fairly common ailment and should be treated, as it can cause damage over time. Treatment typically includes medications such as antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.
People with GERD can develop a condition called Barrett’s esophagus. In these cases, cells in the lower esophagus change and are replaced with cells such as those in the stomach and intestines. These cells tolerate stomach acid, which helps them resist the damage of reflux. While this may lessen the person’s discomfort from heartburn, the condition is a cause for concern, as Barrett cells can sometimes lead to a form of cancer known as adenocarcinoma.
Besides adenocarcinoma, the other major type of esophageal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer is often associated with tobacco or alcohol use, although it can have other causes. Both types of cancer usually cause pain and difficulty swallowing, which can lead to weight loss in patients. Treatments may include endoscopic therapy to remove localized lesions or laser therapy and chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells.
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