Esophageal Stricture in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is an esophageal stricture?
Esophageal stricture is a disorder in which the esophagus (the pipe connecting the mouth to the stomach) narrows. It may develop from a buildup of scar tissue in the esophagus, usually as a result of scarring from frequent acid reflux. Esophageal narrowing can affect your ability to eat and drink by making it more difficult for substances to pass through the esophagus. People living with an esophageal stricture in Indianapolis, IN may experience heartburn, difficulty swallowing, pain, discomfort, unexpected weight loss, frequent belching or hiccuping, or the regurgitation of food or liquids. An esophageal stricture often develops gradually as scar tissue in the esophagus accumulates. If you've experienced the symptoms of an esophageal stricture or are concerned you may develop this condition, get in touch with the team of GI providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to request a consultation.
What causes an esophageal stricture to develop?
At the point where your esophagus and stomach meet is a circle of muscle tissue called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES functions as a sort of valve by relaxing (to allow food and liquids to pass through to the stomach) and contracting (to keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus).
If the LES fails to tighten adequately, acid from the stomach may enter the esophagus, causing heartburn and damaging the walls of the esophagus over time. If this goes on for too long or happens too frequently, the esophagus will slowly begin to narrow as scar tissue builds up. This is an esophageal stricture. The physicians at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology frequently work with patients suffering from esophageal strictures and will partner with you to construct a treatment strategy that fits your health needs.
How is esophageal stricture detected and managed?
Your gastroenterologist will first need to conduct a range of tests to gain a better understanding of whether or not you've developed an esophageal stricture. One common test for this is called a barium swallow, in which you will swallow a drinkable solution containing barium before the doctor takes a series of x-rays of your esophagus. The barium coats the inside of your esophagus and shows up brightly on the x-ray, giving your GI physician a better view. Our providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology may also order an upper endoscopy to get a closer look in order to better diagnose your esophageal stricture.
If you are diagnosed with an esophageal stricture, your physician could suggest a surgical procedure to stretch out your esophagus or bolster the LES. Our team will be happy to discuss treatment methods at your initial consultation so you can decide together which strategy will be the best one for you.
Don't live in discomfort
If you are suffering from persistent heartburn or having problems swallowing food or drinks, reach out to the digestive health providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Our specialists have a wealth of experience treating patients with esophageal strictures in Indianapolis, IN and are more than ready to help you, too. Take the first step toward relief by requesting a consultation.
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Dr. Orinion was extremely professional, very courteous, very empathetic… I only wish we could request who we get each time… But they are all so busy… But I’ve been with Indianapolis gastroenterology for years and have never gone wrong with any of the docs there!!
They were very polite.
Very little wait time before seeing Doctor Crane. He was was very attentive during my appointment and was familiar with my recent CT scans. Dr Crane answered all of my questions relating to the scans and my condition.
Dr. Haynes is very friendly
He is always on time and apologizes if he isn’t. He is very thoughtful and makes sure you understand everything.
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