What are the symptoms of narrowing of the esophagus?

Narrowing of the esophagus, otherwise known as esophageal stricture, is a narrowing of the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. Some common symptoms associated with narrowing of the esophagus may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), feeling like food is stuck in the throat or chest (food impaction), frequent heartburn, regurgitation of acidic or bitter tasting fluid from the back of your throat (acid reflux), sensation or pressure in the chest area (chest tightness) and frequent hiccups.

Less common signs can include chronic coughing and wheezing after eating, weight loss due to difficulties eating normally, vomiting blood caused by a tear in the lining caused by food becoming stuck at a stricture site and severe pain when you swallow.

Esophageal narrowing often requires medical treatment such as endoscopy procedures or medications that relax or widen the constricted area. Surgery may also be necessary if medications are not effective. It’s important to promptly address any symptoms indicative of esophageal stricture because it can progress into more serious complications if left untreated.