Esophagus Disorders

The esophagus is the tube that carries food, liquids and saliva from your mouth to the stomach. You may not be aware of your esophagus until you swallow something too large, too hot or too cold. You may also become aware of it when something is wrong.

The most common problem with the esophagus is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It happens when a band of muscle at the end of your esophagus does not close properly. This allows stomach contents to leak back, or reflux into, into the esophagus and irritate it. Over time, GERD can cause damage to the esophagus. Other problems include heartburn and cancer.

Treatment depends on the problem. Some get better with over-the-counter medicines or changes in diet. Others may need prescription medicines or surgery.

External Resources

Disorders of Esophagus More Common In Older Adults - Article about the relationship between esophageal disease and age.

Ask the Experts: Acid-Related Disorders - Discusses several topics related to dyspepsia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett's esophagus, GERD-related cough, and their diagnosis and treatment. From Medscape. Requires free registration.

The Division of Thoracic Surgery - Brigham and Women's Hospital - Diagnostic and treatment services to patients with benign and malignant neoplasms and other disorders of the lung, esophagus, mediastinum and chest wall. Chronic pulmonary diseases and thoracic surgeries.

Iberia Gastroenterology Associates & Acadiana Surgery Center - Clinic in New Iberia, LA specializinbg in diseases and disorders of the esophagus, stomach, liver, colon, gallbladder, and pancreas. This includes colon cancer screening and non-surgical management of gallstones and bleeding ulcers.

Digestive Specialists, Inc - Medical practice restricted to gastrointestinal system disorders, including esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, small intestine, and colon diseases.

Share your story: