Burning Chest Pain When Swallowing: Possible Esophageal Ulcer?

Q: Burning Chest Pain When Swallowing: Possible Esophageal Ulcer?

Hello： It may be caused by acid reflux burning the esophagus. <br>It is recommended to drink water in moderation and to avoid lying flat when experiencing abdominal bloating. <br>Changhua Hospital cares about your health. <br>Dr. <br>Tsai An-shun.

Burning pain in the chest during swallowing?

Hello doctor, last Saturday I woke up with a sore throat, so I went to see a doctor and took my medication on time that day.
I drank a lot of water, and in the afternoon, I experienced symptoms that suggested water intoxication.
The most severe symptom was a feeling of bloating and the urge to burp, but I couldn't.
I also felt nauseous.
Later, I bought some FIN to drink, and shortly after, I vomited.
Since then, I have experienced a burning pain in my chest when swallowing food and water.
Drinking water and eating porridge feels less severe, but when I swallow other foods that are not as soft, the pain is more intense.
Could this be an esophageal ulcer? Is there any way to improve this condition?

Sī, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/01

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: It may be caused by acid reflux burning the esophagus.
It is recommended to drink water in moderation and to avoid lying flat when experiencing abdominal bloating.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2018/11/01

More Info

Burning chest pain when swallowing can indeed be indicative of an esophageal ulcer or other esophageal conditions. Given your symptoms of chest pain, especially when swallowing solid foods, it is essential to consider several potential underlying causes.

Possible Causes
1. Esophageal Ulcer: An ulcer in the esophagus can cause significant pain, especially when swallowing. This pain can be exacerbated by solid foods or acidic substances, leading to a burning sensation in the chest.

2. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD can lead to inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) and can cause symptoms similar to what you are experiencing. The reflux of stomach acid can irritate the esophageal lining, leading to pain during swallowing.

3. Esophageal Stricture: A narrowing of the esophagus can occur due to chronic inflammation or scarring, making it difficult for food to pass and causing pain.

4. Infections: Certain infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, can lead to esophageal ulcers or inflammation.

5. Motility Disorders: Conditions that affect the movement of the esophagus can also lead to pain during swallowing.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Dietary Modifications:
- Soft Foods: Stick to a diet of soft, easy-to-swallow foods. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that may irritate the esophagus.

- Hydration: Continue to drink plenty of fluids, but avoid excessive amounts at once to prevent feelings of fullness or bloating.

- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods (like citrus and tomatoes) that can exacerbate symptoms.

2. Medications:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): If you have not already been prescribed PPIs, they can help reduce stomach acid production and promote healing of the esophagus.

- Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids may provide temporary relief from burning sensations.

3. Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down to prevent reflux.

4. Consult a Specialist: Given the persistence and severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to follow up with a gastroenterologist. They may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as an upper endoscopy, to visualize the esophagus and determine if there are ulcers or other abnormalities.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting what foods trigger pain and any other associated symptoms. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience severe pain, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), unintentional weight loss, or if your symptoms worsen, seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of a more serious condition that requires immediate intervention.

Conclusion
While your symptoms could suggest an esophageal ulcer, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes. Early intervention can lead to better management of your symptoms and overall health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Esophageal Pain and Difficulty Swallowing: Causes and Treatments

I have been experiencing chest pain whenever I take a deep breath, and recently, I also feel pain when swallowing, especially when drinking hot liquids. The pain has been becoming more pronounced. I would like to know what symptoms this might indicate, whether it could be serious...

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, difficulty or pain while swallowing usually indicates a condition affecting the esophagus. Mild conditions may include esophagitis or esophageal ulcers, while more severe cases could involve esophageal cancer. If symptoms do not improve on their own, it is advisable to see...

Understanding Chest Pain: Possible Esophageal Inflammation After Fever

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about a high fever I had a few days ago. I took medication, but sometimes I took it without eating. At that time, my chest felt very hot, and it felt like something was stuck inside. After a few days, my fever subsided, but now every time I eat o...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Remember to drink plenty of water when taking medication to prevent drug residue from remaining in the esophagus, which can cause esophageal ulcers, especially with capsule medications. Additionally, if the condition worsens, consider undergoing an endoscopy, and be aware ...

Chest Pain While Swallowing: Causes and When to Seek Help

If you experience pain in the chest area when swallowing, especially noticeable when drinking hot soup, it could be due to several reasons. Possible causes include esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or even a condition known as es...

Dr. Li Huixiong reply Internal Medicine
Pain in the chest area when swallowing, especially noticeable with hot soup, may indicate a lesion in the mid-esophagus. If the discomfort is significant, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Is It GERD?

Hello Dr. Chen: For the past month and a half, I have frequently felt as though the food I swallow is not completely going down. I have a sensation of a foreign body in my throat, and I have experienced sharp chest pain upon waking at night! Additionally, I often feel a burning s...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, based on the symptoms, there is a high possibility of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Some antibiotics or medications may also irritate the esophagus. Please visit a gastroenterology clinic for diagnosis and treatment. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Ta...