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Esophageal pain
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
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Pain in the esophagus can be accompanied by similar symptoms and be caused by various reasons.
The human esophagus is located between the pharynx and the stomach, has the shape of a tube and is responsible for the rapid entry of food into the stomach. Ensuring the rapid entry of food into the stomach is the main function of the esophagus.
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Diseases that cause pain in the esophagus
Such a disease of the esophagus as alahazia cardia occurs as a result of diseases of the neuromuscular apparatus, in this case there is pain behind the sternum, pain in the esophagus, after eating there is a feeling of heaviness, regurgitation. The reasons causing this disease are not completely known. During treatment, physical activity is not recommended, stressful situations are contraindicated. For diagnostics, X-rays and manometry are prescribed (a catheter measures the pressure inside the lumen of the esophagus, this procedure can be carried out through the mouth or nose). For this condition, it is recommended to eat small and frequent meals – 5-6 times a day. If the prescribed medications do not have an effective effect, the lumen of the esophagus is expanded with a special balloon.
Pain in the esophagus is also observed when it is damaged, when foreign bodies get in - unchewed pieces of food, accidentally swallowed objects. It is necessary to immediately contact a doctor to remove foreign elements.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease causes food to be pushed back up from the stomach into the esophagus. This condition can be triggered by smoking, excessive consumption of caffeine, hot spices, and alcohol. It causes belching, heartburn, heaviness behind the breastbone, pain in the esophagus, hiccups, and even vomiting.
Manometry is prescribed to establish a diagnosis. The main task in treatment is to normalize nutrition - overeating is strictly prohibited, it is necessary to exclude caffeine, fatty and spicy foods from the diet.
Hernia of the esophagus (esophageal opening of the diaphragm) occurs as a result of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. As a result of the disease, the esophagus is displaced upward. In half of the cases, it can be asymptomatic.
Pain in the esophagus may occur during physical exertion, most often after eating, as well as when bending the body forward and in a lying position. The pain is often of a pressing nature, and belching, hiccups, and vomiting may also occur.
Stomach diseases can also provoke the development of esophagitis. However, this is not always the case. Significant factors of influence can also be smoking, alcohol consumption, excessively hot food and drinks. The main symptoms are pain, belching, heartburn, vomiting, pain in the esophagus. In case of acute and intense pain, it is recommended to refrain from eating for a couple of days. A specialist can prescribe antispasmodics and antibiotics.
With chronic esophagitis, the walls of the esophagus become inflamed. There may be a sensation of a lump stuck in the throat. Gastritis is a frequent companion of chronic esophagitis. Pain can radiate to the neck, back, and even to the heart area. An advanced form of the disease can lead to the formation of cicatricial changes in the esophagus.
Acute esophagitis is characterized by general malaise, weakness, fever, and pain in the esophagus. If left untreated, the disease can become chronic.
In the edematous form of esophagitis, hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane of the esophagus are observed. Professional esophagitis occurs as a result of the influence of harmful substances on the human body - acid vapors, alkalis, salts of heavy metals.
With congestive esophagitis, the mucous membrane of the esophagus is irritated by food debris accumulated in it. With esophagitis, it is not recommended to wear tight or constricting clothing or eat foods that irritate the mucous membrane of the esophagus. It is recommended to lead a healthy lifestyle - quit smoking, drinking alcohol, and avoid bending forward and taking a horizontal body position after eating. In case of complications, as well as in the absence of a positive effect as a result of treatment, surgical intervention may be performed.
What to do if you have pain in your esophagus?
The manifestations of various diseases of the esophagus are in many ways very similar to each other. Only an experienced specialist can understand the symptoms; in no case should you self-medicate. Pain in the esophagus can be successfully eliminated only as a result of treatment prescribed by a qualified and experienced specialist.