Esophageal spasms or contractions are described as abnormal, uncomfortable and oftentimes strong tightening of the esophagus. Regularly, it causes food to move freely from the esophagus to the stomach. However, it can inhibit the food from going into the stomach thus allowing it to remain in the esophagus. At the end, it becomes a cause to acid reflux.
Although esophageal contractions are rare, it may occur due to the cause of other health problems like gastro-esophageal reflux disease. This is a trouble in the nervous system wherein the muscles of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter are not in harmony with each other. Stress and nervousness can also trigger esophageal contractions.
Causes and symptoms of esophageal spasms
The real source of esophageal contraction is still considered mysterious. However, a lot of physicians think that it is due to the interruption of the nerve movement that harmonizes the ingestion performance of your esophagus. In some individuals, extremely hot or cold food and liquid can aggravate the condition.
Majority of individuals with esophageal contractions may experience chest pain affecting their arms, back, neck, and jaw. The discomfort they feel is quite similar to a heart attack. Some people may also experience problems in ingesting food or liquid and annoyance while swallowing. They may also sense that the food they consume is trapped at the middle part of their chest coupled with blazing sensation or heartburn.
Diagnosing esophageal spasms
Your physician will be able to identify the source of esophageal spasms through your medical records. You may also be asked about the kinds of food or liquid that aggravates the symptoms you are experiencing. He may also ask you for symptoms and problems you are encountering, and if you are taking any forms of treatment for the condition.
The analysis can be substantiated by other forms of examinations such as endoscopy. Your physician may also recommend or perform esophagus examination to make certain that the organ is functioning properly. He will give you an acid test to gauge the amount of acid in your esophagus. Your physician may also perform other examinations to identify the real source of the chest pain you are experiencing.
Treatment for esophageal spasms
The medication given for esophageal contraction extends to other problems that may result from your existing condition. Alterations in eating habits and a healthy lifestyle are recommended especially if you have acid reflux. Esophageal contractions may be treated precisely with drugs like nitrates and calcium channel blockers to ease the muscles in the esophagus. The bad news is that these medicines are not efficient all the time in alleviating the symptoms.
Certain antidepressants may also be recommended by your physician even if you are not depressed. They can be useful in stopping the pain you are experiencing due to contraction. Breathing exercises and relaxation may also be recommended to remedy your stressful life and to aid in decreasing the symptoms of your condition. Lastly, your doctor may recommend surgical procedure as a last resort, if all possible medications given have not been successful.