What are esophageal strictures?
Esophageal strictures are narrowings or constrictions in the esophagus which can make it difficult for food and liquids to pass through the esophagus to the stomach.
What causes esophageal strictures?
Esophageal strictures can be caused by various factors, including chronic acid reflux, or GERD, inflammation from other conditions like eosinophilic esophagitis, scarring from surgery or radiation therapy. The presence of a foreign object in the esophagus can also cause an esophageal stricture to form.
What are symptoms of esophageal strictures?
Common symptoms of esophageal strictures can include:
- Difficulty swallowing, also known as pysphagia
- Pain or discomfort when swallowing
- Regurgitation of food
- Chest pain
- Weight loss (in more severe cases)
- Malnutrition (in more severe cases)
How are esophageal strictures diagnosed?
Specific testing is necessary to diagnose an esophageal stricture. A barium swallow study or upper endoscopy (EGD) are commonly used options for confirming the presence of an esophageal stricture. These will further confirm the diagnosis and allow your doctor to evaluate the cause.
What are treatment options for esophageal strictures?
Treatment for esophageal strictures may involve stretching the esophagus (dilation) with an endoscope, medications which reduce inflammation and acid reflux, or even surgery in some cases. Always work with your healthcare provider to find the underlying cause of the stricture and develop a treatment plan that best suits your needs.