Esophageal Spasm

Esophageal spasms are involuntary, uncoordinated contractions of the muscle of this tube, which should normally push food toward the stomach in an orderly way. When that coordination fails, the passage of the food bolus becomes irregular.

Common symptoms: Chest pain that may be confused with heart-related discomfort, a feeling that food gets stuck, and difficulty or discomfort when swallowing.

When to see a doctor? An evaluation is advisable in the case of chest pain or difficulty swallowing that recur, especially to distinguish them from other causes.

Which specialist treats it? The gastroenterologist studies the functioning of the esophagus in adults, and the pediatric gastroenterologist when it occurs in children. Discussing these symptoms with a professional makes it possible to clarify their origin and define the most suitable follow-up.