Esophageal stricture is a medical term used to describe a condition where the esophagus becomes narrow due to scar tissue formation or inflammation. The word "esophageal" is pronounced [ɪˈsɒfədʒiəl] and refers to the tube that connects the throat and stomach. The word "stricture" is pronounced [ˈstrɪktʃə(r)] and refers to the constriction or narrowing of a passage. Together, "esophageal stricture" is pronounced [ɪˈsɒfədʒiəl ˈstrɪktʃə(r)] and describes a condition that can cause difficulty swallowing and other related symptoms. Treatment options may include dilation or surgery.
Esophageal stricture refers to a medical condition characterized by the narrowing of the esophagus. The esophagus is a hollow tube that connects the throat to the stomach, playing a vital role in the transportation of food and liquids from the mouth to the digestive system. When a person develops an esophageal stricture, the normal diameter or width of the esophagus is reduced significantly, obstructing the passage of food and even saliva.
Esophageal strictures can be caused by a variety of factors, with the most common being chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Acidic stomach contents frequently flowing back into the esophagus due to a malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter can gradually damage the esophageal tissue, leading to inflammation and scarring. Other potential causes include prolonged usage of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), ingestion of caustic substances, such as certain cleaning agents or corrosive chemicals, and complications following certain medical treatments like radiation therapy for cancer.
Symptoms of esophageal stricture typically include difficulty swallowing or dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, and recurrent heartburn. As the stricture worsens, individuals may also experience unintended weight loss, aspiration pneumonia (due to swallowed food or liquid entering the lungs), and a feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or chest. Diagnosis of esophageal strictures often involves medical imaging techniques, such as barium swallow X-rays, endoscopy, or esophageal manometry.
Treatment options for esophageal strictures may vary depending on the severity and underlying cause. Techniques to relieve symptoms and improve the swallowing process can include medication therapy, such as proton pump inhibitors to reduce stomach acid, or procedures like esophageal dilation,
The word "esophageal" comes from the Greek word "oesophagos", which means "gullet" or "throat". The term "stricture" comes from the Latin word "strictura", which means "narrowing" or "constriction". Therefore, "esophageal stricture" refers to the narrowing or constriction of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.