Diffuse esophageal spasm: Difference between revisions
No edit summary |
No edit summary |
||
| Line 51: | Line 51: | ||
[[Category:Gastroenterology]] | [[Category:Gastroenterology]] | ||
[[Category:Disease]] | [[Category:Disease]] | ||
[[Category:Emergency medicine]] | |||
Revision as of 20:34, 18 July 2012
For patient information click here
| Diffuse esophageal spasm | |
| DiseasesDB | 32060 |
|---|---|
| MedlinePlus | 000289 |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Synonyms and keywords: corkscrew esophagus, DES
Overview
Diffuse esophageal spasm is a condition in which uncoordinated contractions of the esophagus occur resulting in intense chest pain and pain with swallowing (dysphagia).
Pathosphysiology
Esophageal spasm is thought to result from motility disorders of the esophagus. These spasms do not propel food effectively to the stomach. It can cause dysphagia, regurgitation and chest pain.
Risk Factors and Provoking Factors
It's been reported that very cold or hot beverages can trigger an esophageal spasm. Of note, it has also been reported that rapid swallowing of a liquid often provides immediate relief.
Diagnosis
Barium Swallow
The condition is sometimes referred to as corkscrew esophagus, due to a characteristic appearance of the esophagus as a corkscrew on barium swallow x-rays.
Treatment
Several drugs, including nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are used to treat this condition.