Esophageal Spasm (Painful Muscle Contraction)
Description
Spasm is a disorder of the motility of the esophagus characterized by excessive and abnormal contractions of the esophagus which prevents normal movement of food down the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Very hot or cold foods can trigger the symptoms.
Symptoms
Difficulty swallowing, chest pain, heartburn.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests include: Esophagram and/or esophageal manometry.
Treatment
Sublingual (beneath the tongue) nitroglycerin is used for acute episodes. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are to reduce recurrences. Low-dose antidepressants such as nortriptyline are also administered to reduce symptoms. Rarely surgery is performed.
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Research
Sildenafil relieves symptoms and normalizes motility in patients with oesophageal spasm: a report of two cases.
Provided by: PubMed
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