Signs Indicating That You Might Need An Esophageal Dilatation

Are you having trouble or pain while swallowing food? Or do you feel that something is choking your chest or throat?

It might be due to the narrowing of your esophagus. In medical terms, the disorder is known as a benign esophageal stricture. When the esophagus gets constricted, it becomes difficult for things to pass through the tube. At times, patients also experience frequent hiccups.

Frequent stomach acid reflux in the esophagus is the main cause of esophageal stricture, leading to scarring and inflammation over time. It can also happen as a result of an injury, surgical complications or congenital conditions.

However, the good news is that esophageal stricture is treatable with the help of a procedure called esophageal dilatation.

In this blog, we will get to know about this method in detail, including the alarming signs when you are required to undergo this procedure.

What Is Esophageal Dilatation?

An esophageal dilatation is a procedure to stretch open the esophagus that has become too narrow. During the procedure, an endoscope is inserted into the mouth of the patient and is passed down to the esophagus.

After that, an empty balloon is placed into the esophagus with the help of the endoscope. Air is then filled in the balloon to wide open the stricture to the right size.

You must always have an esophageal dilatation done by an experienced gastroenterologist who has the expertise and knowledge to perform the procedure otherwise there is a chance of the esophagus getting perforated.

Esophageal dilatation may not be a one-time process. You might have to undergo dilatation twice or thrice depending on the extent of the narrowing of the esophagus.

If required, you will also be given medicines for a smooth and quick recovery.

When Do You Need Esophageal Dilatation?

It is to be remembered that issues related to the esophagus do not heal on their own. You must discuss this with your doctor whether you need an esophageal dilatation; in case you are experiencing the following symptoms.

• Non-cardiac chest pain due to discomfort in the esophagus
• A sensation of choking or coughing while swallowing food
• Rumination syndrome (Undigested food coming up after 10-15 minutes after eating).
• Inflammation in the throat, ultimately causing a burning sensation
• A feeling of heaviness
• Frequent burping
• Unexplained weight loss due to reduced intake of food
• In some cases, patients also develop a lump in the throat muscles.

If you are suffering from these problems, your gastroenterologist will surely recommend esophageal dilatation as the only option. The procedure is safe and is the first line of treatment for patients with an esophageal stricture.

When Can You Eat Normally After Esophageal Dilatation?

Soon after the procedure, you are restricted from having any food or drinks for at least 4 -5 hours. You can return to your normal diet only after 24 hours. But make sure to introduce the solid foods gradually. Also, chew your food properly and take one spoon at a time.

At first, it is normal to have a sore throat while eating. But if the pain becomes severe and unbearable, immediately consult your doctor for help.

What Is The Recovery Time To Heal Completely?

Patients completely recover from the procedure in 6-8 weeks. Dr. Indraneel Saha, a top gastroenterologist usually keeps his patients under observation for a few days to monitor their progress.

During the recovery period, you will be asked to refrain from eating spicy and processed foods to avoid triggering acid reflux. Also, instead of having a large meal, you must eat the food in small quantities.

Wrapping Up

Before proceeding with esophageal dilatation, make an appointment with your doctor to find out if it is the right procedure for you.

You can also contact Dr. Indraneel Saha who has 32+ years of experience and efficiency in performing therapeutic endoscopic surgeries in the best possible way.