How do you stop esophageal spasms immediately?
Let foods and drinks that are very hot or very cold sit for a bit before eating or drinking them. Suck a peppermint lozenge. Peppermint oil is a smooth muscle relaxant and might help ease esophageal spasms. Place the peppermint lozenge under your tongue.
What does diffuse esophageal spasm feel like?
Esophageal spasms are painful contractions within the muscular tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). Esophageal spasms can feel like sudden, severe chest pain that lasts from a few minutes to hours. Some people may mistake it for heart pain (angina).
What does Barrett’s esophagus pain feel like?
The development of Barrett’s esophagus is most often attributed to long-standing GERD , which may include these signs and symptoms: Frequent heartburn and regurgitation of stomach contents. Difficulty swallowing food. Less commonly, chest pain.
What causes esophageal sphincter spasm?
What causes esophageal spasm? The cause of esophageal spasm is unknown. Many doctors believe it results from a disruption of the nerve activity that coordinates the swallowing action of the esophagus. In some people, very hot or very cold foods may trigger an episode.
How do you break an esophageal spasm?
Nitroglycerin given under the tongue (sublingual) may help a sudden episode of esophageal spasm. Long-acting nitroglycerin and calcium channel blockers are also used for the problem. Long-term (chronic) cases are sometimes treated with low-dose antidepressants such as trazodone or nortriptyline to reduce symptoms.
Can you have esophageal spasms when not eating?
Some people notice esophageal spasm symptoms after eating hot or very cold food or drink. But spasms can happen anytime, even when you’re not eating or drinking.
What is next to the esophagus?
The esophagus runs behind the windpipe (trachea) and heart, and in front of the spine. Just before entering the stomach, the esophagus passes through the diaphragm.
Can stress and anxiety cause esophageal spasms?
In some cases, underlying conditions such as depression, anxiety, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause esophageal spasms. A combination of medications, therapy, and stress-management techniques can help a person manage underlying depression or anxiety.