Oesophageal strictures (narrowing of the oesophagus)
Medical problems such as chronic acid reflux – where stomach acid and bile rise up the food pipe (oesophagus) – can lead to other conditions. This is because of the damage caused over time by stomach acid to the lining of the oesophagus.
Overview | Signs and symptoms | Causes | Diagnosis | Treatment | Video FAQs
The normally flat inner lining of the pipe becomes inflamed. If the tissue is repeatedly inflamed, then the continuous process of healing followed by chronic inflammation and re-healing will lead to scarring.
If scar tissue builds up, the food pipe develops narrow areas, which are called strictures.
Signs and symptoms
The narrowness gradually causes dysphagia – meaning that it becomes difficult to swallow food and — if it gets more severe — liquids. This may lead to other issues, such as dehydration and weight loss. You might also regurgitate food (bring it back up) and experience drooling.
Causes
Oesophageal strictures are likely to happen in about 10% of patients who have been diagnosed with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). In this situation, the symptoms of narrowing of the oesophagus will be combined with those of GORD, including heartburn, vomiting, sore throat or a cough.
Strictures can also occur in the oesophagus in other circumstances, including viral or bacterial infections, as a side effect of certain medications, swallowing corrosive substances or diseases such as eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) and cancer.
Diagnosis
We diagnose this condition through a series of tests, including swallowing barium, while we take an x-ray of the chest. Barium shows up on X-rays, which makes it easier to see any strictures. We may also perform an endoscopy, in which a narrow tube (endoscope) containing a light and a camera is passed down the oesophagus to see inside the food pipe.
Treatment
The most common treatment for oesophageal strictures is endoscopic dilation, where we use an endoscope to move a tiny balloon or another dilation device into the oesophagus to gently stretch it. We may prescribe medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) too.
With either treatment, it is still possible for oesophageal strictures to return after a year or so. Therefore, you are likely to need more than one dilatation session. In severe cases, we may recommend surgery.
Book an appointment
Oesophageal strictures cause difficulty swallowing, leading to dehydration and weight loss if left untreated. Our dedicated specialists can help you manage your condition and may recommend a procedure to alleviate your symptoms.
Contact our clinic to arrange private diagnostics and treatment with one of our expert gastroenterologists.
Tests
Treatments / Symptom Management
Treat the underlying cause
Gastroscopy and dilatation
Gastroscopy and stents