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Medical Encyclopedia |
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Definition Return to top
Benign esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) that causes swallowing difficulties.
Causes Return to top
Esophageal stricture can be caused by:
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
Dilation (stretching) of the esophagus is the preferred treatment. Repeated dilation may be necessary to prevent the stricture from returning.
Proton pump inhibitors (acid-blocking medicines) can keep a peptic stricture from returning. Surgical treatment is rarely necessary.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
The patient may develop the stricture again in the future.
Possible Complications Return to top
Swallowing difficulties may keep the patient from getting enough fluids and nutrients. There is also an increased risk (with regurgitation) of having food, fluid, or vomit enter the lungs and cause choking or aspiration pneumonia.
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if swallowing difficulty persists.
Prevention Return to top
Use safety measures to avoid swallowing corrosive substances. Keep dangerous products out of the reach of children. See your doctor if you have GERD.
Update Date: 7/28/2006 Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-TorresdaleHospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
