Esophageal spasm implies a disease that is characterized by an episodic violation of directly intestinal motility, as well as the rhythmic opening of the so-called lower food sphincter. According to experts, this disease of all existing diseases of the stomach and intestines is relatively rare. In a healthy person, the digestive process occurs without delay, therefore, food does not in any way irritate the internal surface of organs. In this article, we will talk about what constitutes a spasm of the esophagus, symptoms and treatment of this disease.
Why does this ailment arise?
As food enters through the internal organs, a gradual reduction occurs. Violation of motility in turn leads to very unpleasant consequences, namely such an ailment as a spasm of the esophagus. The reasons in this case can be very different. These are regular stressful situations, and mental excitations, and poorly chewed food.
Accepted Classification
At the moment, experts conditionally distinguish two types of this ailment.
- The diffuse spasm of the esophagus is an uncoordinated organ contraction. In this case, as a rule, dysphagia is observed.
- Segmental spasm of the esophagus is a contraction of an organ in some part of it with excessive amplitude. In this case, the food passes, but the person himself constantly experiences pain. As a rule, deformation of the esophagus itself subsequently develops.
Symptoms and related events
Most often, patients begin to complain of severe pain and discomfort in the sternum, which can give to the jaw and shoulders. It is noteworthy that unpleasant sensations arise both in the process of directly chewing food, and with the usual swallowing of saliva. According to experts, pain in some cases intensifies at the time of stressful experiences, as well as with excitement. At the end of the attack itself, patients often spit up a small amount of mucus.
Treatment and expert adviceAccording to qualified doctors, esophageal spasm is very difficult to treat. As a rule, Nitroglycerin, other anticholinergics (for example, Metacin) and calcium channel blockers (Nifeifin) are prescribed. Note that all these drugs only reduce the symptoms. To expand the organ, this method is often used in which the balloon is inflated inside the esophagus itself. If all of the above methods are ineffective, then you have to resort to surgical intervention. During the operation, the doctor dissects the muscle layer along the entire length of the organ. In this case, rehabilitation continues for several months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it should be noted that a specific treatment method is chosen exclusively by an experienced specialist. Very rarely you have to resort to surgery.