Typical symptoms of esophagus diseases include heartburn, difficulty swallowing food, regurgitation and chest pain. Specific symptoms depend on the particular esophagus disease. Common esophagus diseases include acid reflux, achalasia, dysphagia and Barrett’s esophagus, according to Healthline, MedicineNet and Mayo Clinic.Continue Reading
Acid reflux occurs when the stomach acids flow back into the esophagus due to improper opening or closing of the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve between the stomach and esophagus. Symptoms include sour taste, regurgitation, a burning sensation in the esophagus and dyspepsia characterized by stomach discomfort, notes Healthline.
Barrett's esophagus involves the formation of tissue in the esophagus similar to the intestinal lining. It is common in patients diagnosed with acid reflux and can increase the risk for esophageal cancer. Symptoms include chest pain, heartburn and swallowing problems, states Mayo Clinic.
Achalasia occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not open properly to allow food to enter the stomach. It arises from problems with the esophagus such as failure to relax and poor peristalsis. Symptoms include chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing food and weight loss because of reduced food intake, explains MedicineNet.
A patient suffering from dysphagia experiences swallowing problems and pain due to causes such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, a narrowed esophagus, esophageal tumors and poorly coordinated contractions of the esophagus. Symptoms include unexpectedly losing weight, pain when swallowing food and regurgitation, according to Mayo Clinic.Learn more about Conditions & Diseases