Common Symptoms and Causes of Esophageal Strictures

An esophageal stricture on the other hand is a constriction of the esophagus – the muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. This can cause swallowing abnormalities, which may lead to other complications if not well dealt with.

Symptoms of Esophageal Strictures

The most common symptom is dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, particularly with solid foods. Other signs may include:

Sensation of food getting stuck in the throat or chest

Frequent choking or coughing during meals

Unintentional weight loss

Heartburn or regurgitation

Chest pain or discomfort while swallowing

If you experience these symptoms frequently, consulting a Gastroenterologist in Agra can help identify the condition early and begin appropriate treatment.

Causes of Esophageal Strictures

Several factors can lead to esophageal strictures:

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux can rub against the esophagus lining and form scar tissues making it narrow over time.

Esophagitis: Inflammation resulting from infections, allergy, or formation of pills in the esophagus.

Radiation Therapy: Particularly in treatment of cancers affecting the chest or anything especially round the neck.

Ingestion of Corrosive Substances: Ingestion of strong chemicals, whether by accident or deliberately, can cause harm to the esophageal lining.

Medical Procedures: Complication arising from endoscopy/ prolonged use of nasogastric tube.

A proper diagnosis by the best gastroenterologist in Agra ensures that the underlying cause is correctly identified and managed.

Treatment Options

This kind of treatment entails management of symptoms and identification of the cause. Common approaches include:

Esophageal Dilation: A process that applies a balloon or a dilator to expand a section that has been constricted.

Medications: Dictated anti-secretory agents such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or steroids to inhibit inflammation and acid reflux.

Surgery: Also used in severe or recurrent strictures of the colon.

Dietary Adjustments: Staying on a restricted diet and not consuming food that trigger the symptoms like spicy and acidic fruits and vegetables.

Despite this, most patients having esophageal strictures can go through effective treatment procedures if diagnosed on time. Swallowing problems are apparent if they persist, and an early consultation with the doctor is highly advised in such a case.

Suffering from esophageal strictures to receive the best care from a true specialist go straight to Safe Surgery Center aided by Dr. Karan R Rawat.

Schedule your appointment today for a detailed consultation with one of our Qualified general practitioners that will cater for your gastrointestinal problems with friendly manners.