What does it mean when your esophagus spasms?

What does it mean when your esophagus spasms?

Esophageal spasms are problems with muscles in your esophagus, the tube that takes food and drink to your stomach after you swallow. Spasms may cause minor to severe symptoms, including difficulty swallowing and chest pain. Medication or other therapies often help. Surgery is rare.

What to do when you are having an esophageal spasm?

Let foods and drinks that are very hot or very cold sit for a bit before eating or drinking them. Suck a peppermint lozenge. Peppermint oil is a smooth muscle relaxant and might help ease esophageal spasms. Place the peppermint lozenge under your tongue.

How do you calm esophagitis?

Depending on the type of esophagitis you have, you may lessen symptoms or avoid recurring problems by following these steps:

1. Avoid foods that may increase reflux.
2. Use good pill-taking habits.
3. Lose weight.
4. If you smoke, quit.
5. Avoid certain medications.
6. Avoid stooping or bending, especially soon after eating.

How do I know if something is wrong with my esophagus?

Abdominal pain, chest pain or back pain. Chronic cough or sore throat. Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is stuck in your throat. Heartburn (burning feeling in your chest).

What is the best medicine for esophageal spasms?

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.

What causes severe esophageal spasms?

Esophageal spasms can be associated with GERD/gastroesophageal reflux disease. High blood pressure (hypertension) can trigger esophageal spasms. Anxiety or depression can also cause esophageal spasms. Consuming very hot or very cold drinks/foods increases the risk for having esophageal spasm.

What does it mean to have esophageal spasms?

An esophageal spasm is an abnormal series of muscle contractions in the throat that causes pain and difficulties swallowing. Most spasms are spontaneous and short-lived, and may occur when a person takes a drink of a very hot or cold liquid. Some people, however, experience chronic or frequently occurring esophageal…

What are the signs of cancer in the esophagus?

Other possible symptoms of cancer of the esophagus can include: Hoarseness. Chronic cough. Vomiting. Hiccups. Bone pain.