This condition is caused by the abnormal tightening or narrowing of the oesophagus. When there is an oesophageal stricture in the throat, it can be hard to eat or drink without pain or issues with food getting stuck in the throat. Digestive disorders can be linked with these strictures but are not required for the condition to be present.
The most common symptoms of oesophageal strictures are:
This condition can express itself as simple strictures that are small and leave a wide opening or as complex strictures that are longer obstructions with narrower openings. Complex strictures can be rough or uneven in nature without straight surfaces or borders, while simple strictures are often smoother and have straight and symmetrical borders.
The causes of this condition are:
Other conditions that cause scarring of the tissues can also lead to these strictures, such as radiation therapy or GERD.
The most common way to diagnose this condition is through a barium swallow study which takes X-rays images of food that is treated with barium as it moves through the oesophagus. An upper endoscopy can also be used to diagnose this condition.
Dilation of the stricture is the most common way that this condition is treated. The surgeon doing the procedure will use a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into the oesophagus and then blown up like a balloon to widen the stricture. Those who are suffering from GERD might be given medications to help prevent acid reflux that can lead to the scarring that causes oesophageal strictures. In severe cases, oesophageal stents might be used to widen and stretch the oesophagus.
Prevention of this condition can be difficult. If you know that you have GERD, you will need to be sure to take your medication to prevent acid reflux from damaging your throat. Those with cancer or who have had surgery on their oesophagus might need to be monitored for the development of this condition post-treatment.