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Alternative names Return to top
Diffuse esophageal spasm; Spasm of the esophagusDefinition Return to top
Esophageal spasms involve irregular contractions of the muscles in the esophagus, which is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. These spasms do not propel food effectively to the stomach.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The cause of esophageal spasm is unknown. Very hot or very cold foods may trigger an episode in some people. The pain may be indistinguishable from angina and may radiate to the neck, jaw, arms, or back.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
An esophagogram shows irregular contractions of the esophagus. Esophageal manometry shows esophageal spasms.
Treatment Return to top
Sublingual (beneath the tongue) nitroglycerin may be effective in an acute episode. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are also used to treat esophageal spasms. Chronic cases are sometimes treated with low-dose antidepressants such as nortryptiline, to reduce symptoms.
Rarely, severe cases require surgery.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
An esophageal spasm may be an intermittent or chronic condition. Relief of symptoms is usually achieved with medication.
Complications Return to top
The condition may not respond to treatment.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have persistent esophageal spasm symptoms.
Prevention Return to top
Avoid very hot or very cold foods if you are prone to esophageal spasms.
Update Date: 7/19/2004 Updated by: Christian Stone, M.D., Division of Gastroenterology, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |