Esophageal spasm (patient information)

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Overview
Esophageal spasms are abnormal contractions of the muscles in the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach). These spasms do not move food effectively to the stomach.

What are the symptoms of Esophageal spasm?

 * Difficulty swallowing or pain with swallowing
 * Pain in the chest or upper abdomen

It can be hard to tell a spasm from angina pectoris, a symptom of heart disease. The pain may spread to the neck, jaw, arms, or back

What causes Esophageal spasm?
The cause of esophageal spasm is unknown. Very hot or very cold foods may trigger an episode in some people.

Diagnosis
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) Esophageal manometry Esophagogram (barium swallow x-ray)

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of esophageal spasm that don't go away.

Treatment options
Nitroglycerin given under the tongue (sublingual) may be effective in an acute episode of esophageal spasm. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are also used to treat esophageal spasms.

Long-term (chronic) cases are sometimes treated with low-dose antidepressants such as trazodone or nortriptyline to reduce symptoms.

Rarely, severe cases may need dilation (widening) of the esophagus or surgery to control symptoms. However, it is not clear whether these procedures will help.

Where to find medical care for Esophageal spasm?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Esophageal spasm

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
An esophageal spasm may come and go (intermittent) or last for a long time (chronic). Medicine can help relieve symptoms.

Possible complications
The condition may not respond to treatment.

Prevention of Esophageal spasm
Avoid very hot or very cold foods if you get esophageal spasms.