What are esophageal spasms or esophageal spasms?

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Definition

What is esophageal spasm?

Ideally, contractions in the esophagus (esophagus) function to move food from the mouth to the stomach at a normal rhythm.

Esophageal spasms mean contractions in the esophagus are abnormal, irregular, and sometimes too hard. This condition may be called diffuse esophageal spasm (DES). The contractions that occur will prevent food from entering the stomach. As a result, food gets stuck in the esophageal tract.

Sometimes the contractions are regular, but they are too strong, causing excruciating pain.

How common are esophageal spasms?

esophageal spasm is rare. This condition is common in elderly people aged 60 to 80 years.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of esophageal spasm?

Some of the common symptoms of esophageal spasms include:

• Chest pain and tightness, often mistaken for chest pain (angina), which is a symptom of a heart attack
• Difficulty swallowing, especially certain foods or drinks that are too hot or cold
• Feeling stuck in the throat
• Food rises up from the stomach again

There may be some signs or symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about certain symptoms, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should see a doctor right away if you experience symptoms of esophageal spasms. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes esophageal spasms?

The cause of esophageal spasms is not certain. Doctors strongly suspect that this condition is caused by a nerve disorder that regulates the swallowing reflex in your esophagus. In some cases, swallowing food that is too hot or cold can trigger seizures.

Risk factors

What increases the risk of esophageal spasms?

There are several risk factors for esophageal spasm. Among others are:

• Elderly
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also often called gastric reflux disease
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Anxiety or depression
• Drink wine or consuming foods and drinks that are too hot or cold

Diagnosis & treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is esophageal spasm diagnosed?

Your doctor may diagnose esophageal spasm from your medical record or medical history by asking a few questions. For example, what food or drink triggered a seizure, where you felt it involved, what symptoms you felt, and what medicines you took.

The doctor's diagnosis can be confirmed by examinations such as an esophageal test with manometry or a barium test with X-rays.

Other tests include whether the chest pain is caused by acid reflux, food rises again, or other causes.

How is esophageal spasm treated?

Esophageal spasm treatment includes treating other conditions that trigger seizures, such as acid reflux. Changes in lifestyle and diet are usually very helpful in preventing reflux.

Other treatments include:

• Follow certain dietary and beverage restrictions from the doctor.
• Dilation of the esophagus with a special tool. This procedure may be done many times.
• Surgery may be needed, especially for people with achalasia (unable to swallow).
• If you can't have surgery, your doctor may suggest medications, such as botulinum toxin, to relax the esophageal muscles.

Lifestyle changes & home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat esophageal spasms?

The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you deal with esophageal spasms:

• Avoid the trigger. Make a list of foods and drinks that can make your condition worse. The trigger is different for each person.
• Do not consume foods and drinks that are too hot or cold.
• Manage stress. In some people, esophageal spasms can be triggered by stress or mental stress.
• Eat lozenges to relax the esophageal muscles.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.