Inflammation of the esophageal stricture causing a narrowing of the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). This narrowing inhibits swallowing. When caused by chemical damage, the disorder is called corrosive esophagitis. A band of tissue may develop between the damaged linings of the esophagus. This may produce an esophageal web.
Causes of Esophageal Stricture
Causes are due to scarring of the esophagus following inflammation or damage caused by chronic heartburn (reflux esophagitis) or hiatal hernia, prolonged use of feeding tubes, accidental or deliberate swallowing of lye or other corrosive chemicals, bulimia, and radiation therapy to throat, neck, or chest.
Signs and Symptoms of Esophageal Stricture
Symptoms include: sudden or gradual decrease in the ability to swallow, gradual swallowing difficulty with solid foods first then liquids, pain in the mouth and chest after eating, increased salivation, rapid breathing, vomiting (sometimes with mucus or blood), and cancer of the esophagus often causes similar symptoms.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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