Can disease cause esophageal spams?
Yes, certain diseases can cause esophageal spasms. Some examples include:
Achalasia: This is a condition in which the muscles of the esophagus do not relax properly, leading to difficulty swallowing and esophageal spasms.
Diffuse esophageal spasm: This is a condition characterized by frequent and intense esophageal spasms, often causing chest pain and difficulty swallowing.
Nutcracker esophagus: This is a condition in which the esophageal muscles contract with excessive force, leading to esophageal spasms and difficulty swallowing.
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE): This is an allergic condition that affects the esophagus and can cause esophageal spasms, inflammation, and difficulty swallowing.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): In some cases, severe or chronic GERD can lead to esophageal spasms due to the irritation and inflammation caused by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.