HealthCentral.com

Esophageal spasm



Digestive system
Digestive system
Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy


Esophageal spasm

Alternative Names:

Diffuse esophageal spasm; Spasm of the esophagus
Treatment:

Sublingual (beneath the tongue) nitroglycerin may be effective in an acute episode. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are also used to treat esophageal spasms. Chronic cases are sometimes treated with low-dose antidepressants such as nortryptiline, to reduce symptoms.



Rarely, severe cases require surgery.


Expectations (prognosis):

An esophageal spasm may be an intermittent or chronic condition. Relief of symptoms is usually achieved with medication.


Complications:

The condition may not respond to treatment.


Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have persistent esophageal spasm symptoms.




Symptoms Checker