What does it mean when your esophagus is dilated?
An esophageal dilation is a procedure used to widen a narrowed section of your esophagus. This is the tube that leads from your throat to your stomach. Narrowing (stricture) of the esophagus can cause problems. These include trouble swallowing.
How do you treat a benign esophageal stricture?
Treating benign esophageal stricture
- Esophageal dilation. Esophageal dilation, or stretching, is the preferred option in most cases.
- Esophageal stent placement. The insertion of esophageal stents can provide relief from esophageal stricture.
- Diet & lifestyle.
- Medication.
- Surgery.
Are esophageal strictures benign?
Benign esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach). It causes swallowing difficulties. Benign means that it is not caused by cancer of the esophagus.
What causes benign esophageal stricture?
Esophageal strictures happen when the lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed, which can cause scarring. This scarring can cause the esophagus to narrow. Many different factors can cause a benign esophageal stricture, but gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is responsible for most cases.
How long does an esophageal dilation last?
It is generally not a painful exam, but the sedation helps you to relax. Most of the effects of the sedation persist for 15-60 minutes, and you may not be able to recall the procedure afterwards. Your throat is usually anesthetized with a spray or liquid to minimize the gag reflex.
How common is benign esophageal stricture?
Esophageal strictures are not common. They can occur at any age but usually affect people older than 40 years.
How long does it take to recover from esophageal dilation?
Your throat may feel sore for a day after dilation but usually improves within 24 hours. Localized irritation of the vein where the medication was injected may cause a tender lump lasting for several weeks, but this will go away eventually. Applying heat packs or hot moist towels may help relieve discomfort.
Can esophageal dilation cause problems?
What are the Potential Complications of Esophageal Dilation? Although complications can occur even when the procedure is performed correctly, they are rare when performed by doctors who are specially trained. A perforation, or hole, of the esophagus lining occurs in a small percentage of cases and may require surgery.