What
is Diffuse Esophageal Spasm?
Diffuse Esophageal Spasm (DES) causes your esophagus to spasm in an uncoordinated fashion
that prevents food that is swallowed from reaching the stomach.
What symptoms will I experience if I have Diffuse
Esophageal Spasm?
- Chest pain. This pain is often confused with angina, and can worsen
when eating or drinking very hot foods or liquids.
- Difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
What are the causes of DES?
DES is a poorly understood disorder. It is related to a motor abnormality of the esophagus,
however the specific cause is unknown.
How is it diagnosed?
It is essential that heart disease, if considered, be excluded when evaluating patients with
chest pains suggestive of DES. There are several diagnostic tools that are used to determine
the presence of a diffuse esophageal spasm.
- Barium
Swallow: In this procedure, the patient
drinks barium, which coats the esophagus. A series of x-rays are then taken and the function
of the esophagus is observed.
- Esophagoscopy
or Endoscopy: Performed most commonly in patients
who experience difficulty swallowing or food sticking in the esophagus. This is when a thin,
flexible tube is introduced to your esophagus orally. This tube is lighted and has a camera
on the end, which allows your physician to see the inside of your esophagus and take biopsies
as needed.
- Esophageal
Manometry: An esophageal manometry involves passing a small tube
or catheter through your nose or mouth and into the stomach. The tube is then slowly pulled
back through the esophagus and pressure readings are taken at intervals along the esophagus.
The function of the esophagus is then evaluated.
What is the treatment process for Diffuse
Esophageal Spasm?
There are several treatment methods available for treating DES.
- Medication: There are medications
available that can relax the muscles of the esophagus. While medication may help some patients,
it is not effective in all patients.
- Surgery:
Surgery is generally reserved for very difficult cases or as a last resort in DES. The surgical
procedure used to treat DES involves cutting the muscles of the lower esophagus to help relax
the esophagus. It may be done through an incision in the chest or abdomen.
Where can I learn more about Diffuse Esophageal Spasm?
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