Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia LLC
Gastroenterologists located in Macon, Gray, Warner Robins, and Milledgeville, GA
Your esophagus is an important part of your gastrointestinal tract that helps move food from your mouth to your stomach. Diseases of the esophagus can affect these functions and lead to health complications such as malnutrition. At Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia in Macon, Georgia, the board-certified gastroenterologists take a proactive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal diseases. For an evaluation, call the office.
Diseases of the Esophagus Q & A
What are diseases of the esophagus?
Many conditions affect the structure and function of your esophagus. Some of the most common esophageal diseases treated at Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia include:
Esophageal dysphagia
Esophageal dysphagia refers to difficulty swallowing due to issues related to the esophagus. This may include structural issues such as strictures or a neuromuscular malfunction that affects muscle movement.
Esophageal cancer
Esophageal cancer refers to cancer that initiates in the tissue of your esophagus. It’s the sixth most common cancer worldwide and is more often seen in men than women.
Achalasia
Achalasia is a rare esophageal disease in which your lower esophageal sphincter doesn’t relax and allow food to move from your esophagus to your stomach.
Esophageal strictures
Esophageal strictures refer to a narrowing of your esophagus, which can lead to dysphagia.
Barrett’s esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus occurs when the tissue that lines your esophagus is replaced by tissue that more closely resembles the tissue found in your intestines. Though the risk is low, Barrett’s esophagus can increase your risk of esophageal cancer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes refluxing of the acidic contents of your stomach up into your esophagus, is a common cause of many conditions that affect the esophagus.
What symptoms indicate a disease of the esophagus?
The symptoms you experience with a disease of the esophagus may vary in type and severity. The team recommends you schedule an evaluation if you’re experiencing:
Pain when you swallow
Difficulty swallowing
Feeling as though you have food stuck in your throat
Worsening of your reflux symptoms
You may also experience chest pain if you have an esophageal disease.
What can I expect during an evaluation?
The experienced team at Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia conducts comprehensive evaluations when you come in with concerns about your esophagus. During your evaluation, your gastroenterologist asks you about your symptoms and reviews your medical history. They also perform a physical exam.
To confirm or rule out a disease of the esophagus, the team may recommend further diagnostic testing, such as:
Blood work
Swallowing study
Endoscopy
Pill endoscopy
Abdominal ultrasound
Once the team has determined the underlying cause of your symptoms, they develop your personalized treatment plan.
Contact Gastroenterology Associates of Central Georgia by phone today if you have any concerns about esophageal disease.