What is jackhammer esophagus?
What is jackhammer esophagus?
Jackhammer esophagus is a specific disorder of the muscular action of the esophagus (aka “dysmotility”) wherein there are high amplitude abnormal contractions (“spasm”) of the esophageal muscle. These contractions are of much higher force than normal and also are discoordinated compared to normal contraction.
How do you treat diffuse esophageal spasms?
Treatment options include:
- Botulinum toxin (BoTox®). Botulinum toxin is a poison produced by the bacteria that causes botulism.
- Drugs to relax the muscles. While medications can help some patients, they are not effective overall.
- Peppermint oil.
- Surgery to cut the muscles along the lower esophagus.
What does des mean in terms of esophageal spasm?
Esophageal spasm means that contractions of the esophagus are irregular, uncoordinated, and sometimes powerful. This condition may be called diffuse esophageal spasm, or DES.
What kind of spasms do you get in the esophagus?
Diffuse esophageal spasms – These spasms occur only occasionally. It can be very painful, and it may cause food or liquids to come back up. Nutcracker esophagus, also known as jackhammer esophagus – Although these contractions are painfully strong, it is less likely that food or liquids will come back up.
Why does my esophagus hurt when I swallow?
In nutcracker (or jackhammer) esophagus, muscle contractions are too strong or forceful. This can cause pain, especially when you swallow. The pain can be severe and may feel like squeezing in your chest. How common are esophageal spasms?
How is a poem used to treat esophageal spasms?
POEM is a minimally-invasive treatment for esophageal spasms. An endoscope is inserted through the mouth and down the throat to make an incision in the inside lining of the esophagus. The surgeon cuts the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus.