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Esophageal spasm

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Anonymous

14y ago
Updated: 9/16/2019
Definition

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.

Alternative Names

Diffuse esophageal spasm; Spasm of the esophagus

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of esophageal spasm is unknown. Very hot or very cold foods may trigger an episode in some people. It can be hard to tell a spasm from angina. The pain may spread to the neck, jaw, arms, or back.

SymptomsSigns and testsTreatment

Nitroglycerin given under the tongue (sublingual) may be effective in an acute episode. 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 nortriptyline to reduce symptoms.

Rarely, severe cases need surgery.

Expectations (prognosis)

An esophageal spasm may come and go (intermittent) or last for a long time (chronic). Medicine can help relieve symptoms.

Complications

The condition may not respond to treatment.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of esophageal spasm that don't go away.

Prevention

Avoid very hot or very cold foods if you get esophageal spasms.

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14y ago

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Related Questions

Spasm in the esophagus?

Yes. Esophageal spasm is a known medical condition.


What is the word for spasm of the esophagus?

esophageal spasms. also, peristalsis.


How is a diagnosis of diffuse esophageal spasm made?

Swallowing problems usually call for esophagograms.


What are the causes of diffuse esophageal spasm?

The exact cause of diffuse esophageal spasm is unknown, but it is thought to be due to abnormal muscle contractions in the esophagus. Risk factors for developing diffuse esophageal spasm include acid reflux, underlying esophageal conditions, and certain medications. Stress and anxiety may also contribute to symptoms.


What is the medical term meaning spasm of the esophagus?

The medical term meaning spasm of the esophagus is known simply as "esophageal spasm." Doctors don't know why some people suffer with these spasms but treatment methods include nitroglycerin, anti-depressants, and in rare cases, surgery.


What causes throat spasm?

The actual cause of muscle spasms in the throat or esophageal is unknown at this time. It is simply a theory that there is an interruption of the nerve activity that coordinates swallowing inside of the esophagus.


What you call when a muscle contracts involuntarily?

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Which joints are affected in carpopedal spasm?

carpopedal spasm are spasm of the hand or foot, or of the thumbs and great toes.


What cell term rhymes with spasm?

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When was Spasm - album - created?

Spasm - album - was created in 1993.


How do you write a sentence using the word spasm?

My hand just had a spasm!


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