Esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus that causes swallowing difficulties. It can be caused by:

• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
• Eosinophilic esophagitis
• Injuries caused by an endoscope
• Long-term use of a nasogastric (NG) tube
• Swallowing substances that harm the lining of the esophagus
• Treatment of esophageal varices

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

• Trouble swallowing
• Painful swallowing
• Unintentional weight loss
• Regurgitation of food

Diagnosis

If esophageal stricture is suspected, a Deborah physician will order the following tests to look for narrowing of the esophagus:

• Barium swallow 
• Endoscopy