• A finding indicating the lack of adequate relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter resulting in difficulty swallowing food.
  • A motility disorder of the esophagus in which the lower esophageal sphincter (near the cardia) fails to relax resulting in functional obstruction of the esophagus, and dysphagia. Achalasia is characterized by a grossly contorted and dilated esophagus (megaesophagus).
  • A non-neoplastic or neoplastic disorder that affects the esophagus. Representative examples of non-neoplastic disorders include esophagitis and esophageal ulcer. Representative examples of neoplastic disorders include carcinomas, lymphomas, and melanomas.
  • Disorder of the esophagus, the portion of the digestive canal between the pharynx and stomach.
  • Failure of normal relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter associated with uncoordinated contractions of the thoracic esophagus, resulting in functional obstruction and difficulty swallowing.
  • Pathological processes in the esophagus.
  • The esophagus is the tube that carries food, liquids and saliva from your mouth to the stomach. You may not be aware of your esophagus until you swallow something too large, too hot or too cold. You may also become aware of it when something is wrong. The most common problem with the esophagus is gastroesophageal reflux disease (gerd). It happens when a band of muscle at the end of your esophagus does not close properly. This allows stomach contents to leak back, or reflux, into the esophagus and irritate it. Over time, gerd can cause damage to the esophagus. Other problems include heartburn and cancer.treatment depends on the problem. Some get better with over-the-counter medicines or changes in diet. Others may need prescription medicines or surgery.