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Esophageal spasm Causes and Risks:
The cause of esophageal spasm is unknown. Very hot or very cold foods may trigger an episode. The pain may be indistinguishable from angina and may include radiation to the neck, jaw, arms or back. Women are affected more often than men. The incidence is 1 out of 1000 people.
Prevention:
Avoid very hot or very cold foods if prone to esophageal spasm.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
An esophagogram shows irregular contractions of the esophagus. An esophageal manometry shows esophageal spasms .
Treatment:
Sublingual nitroglycerin may be effective in an acute episode. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are also used. Surgical therapy is rarely needed in severe cases.
Prognosis:
An esophageal spasm may be an intermittent or chronic condition. Relief of symptoms is usually achieved with medication.
Complications:
The condition may not respond to treatment.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have persistent esophageal spasm symptoms.
This illustration shows the major organs of the digestive system. Their relative sizes and positioning in the body are also demonstrated.
A cross-section illustration of the mouth, nasal cavity, and throat. The nasal passages are also visible.
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