Esophageal disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect the esophagus, the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. These disorders can interfere with swallowing, cause pain, and lead to significant discomfort and complications if left untreated. Common esophageal disorders include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, achalasia, and esophageal strictures. Symptoms may include heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and regurgitation of food or liquids. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing these conditions effectively and preventing long-term damage to the esophagus.

Key Features of Esophageal Disorders:

Common Symptoms:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Heartburn or acid reflux
• Chest pain that may mimic heart pain
• Regurgitation of food or sour liquid
• Chronic cough or hoarseness
• Sensation of a lump in the throat

Common Esophageal Disorders:

• GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease): Chronic acid reflux causing irritation and inflammation of the esophagus.
• Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus, often due to GERD, infections, or medications.
• Barrett’s Esophagus: A condition where the esophageal lining changes, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.
• Achalasia: A rare disorder where the esophagus fails to move food into the stomach due to nerve damage.
• Esophageal Strictures: Narrowing of the esophagus, often due to scarring from chronic acid reflux or injury.

Causes:

• GERD: Caused by the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
• Infections: Fungal, viral, or bacterial infections can lead to esophagitis.
• Autoimmune Conditions: Conditions like scleroderma can cause esophageal dysfunction.
• Structural Abnormalities: Tumors, strictures, or hernias can obstruct the esophagus.
• Medications and Toxins: Certain medications or caustic substances can damage the esophagus.

Diagnosis:

• Endoscopy: Visual examination of the esophagus to check for inflammation, strictures, or abnormal growths.
• Barium Swallow: X-ray imaging to assess the shape and function of the esophagus.
• pH Monitoring: Measuring acid levels in the esophagus to diagnose GERD.
• Manometry: Testing the strength and coordination of esophageal muscles.
• Biopsy: Taking tissue samples to check for Barrett’s esophagus or cancer.

Management and Treatment:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Dietary changes, weight management, and avoiding triggers like alcohol and smoking.
• Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2 blockers, antacids, and medications to improve motility.
• Endoscopic Procedures: Dilation of strictures, removal of growths, or ablation for Barrett’s esophagus.
• Surgical Interventions: For severe cases, such as fundoplication for GERD or esophagectomy for cancer.
• Regular Monitoring: Ongoing surveillance for conditions like Barrett’s esophagus to detect any changes early.

When to Seek Medical Help:

• Persistent or worsening symptoms, especially difficulty swallowing or unexplained weight loss
• Chest pain that may be mistaken for heart-related issues
• Chronic or severe heartburn that does not improve with over-the-counter medications
• Symptoms of complications, such as bleeding or signs of anemia

Esophageal disorders require prompt and effective treatment to prevent complications and maintain a good quality of life. If you are experiencing symptoms related to esophageal conditions, it is essential to seek medical evaluation. Our hospital offers specialized care for a wide range of esophageal disorders, with a focus on accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. Contact us to schedule an appointment with our experienced gastroenterology team.