Esophageal Issues: Symptoms and Possible Causes - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Esophageal issues?

Hello, doctor.
For the past couple of days, I've been feeling like food is stuck in my chest after eating, making it hard to swallow and causing nausea without being able to vomit.
On the first day, I thought it was because I ate too much or my clothes were too tight, but after a shower, it improved.
The next day, I experienced the same symptoms during meals; it feels like when I burp, the food wants to come back up, and I seriously want to vomit but can't.
My stomach doesn't feel uncomfortable, even though I'm someone who usually eats quickly.
I've been trying to slow down, but the situation remains the same, and it feels like food is stuck in my chest.
I looked up my symptoms online, and some sources mentioned esophagitis and esophageal cancer.
I visited an ENT specialist, who said I have gastritis, but I don't feel any discomfort in my stomach.
I would appreciate your advice on what might be going on with me.

Amin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/01

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If discomfort persists, an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may be warranted.

Reply Date: 2020/11/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some distressing symptoms related to swallowing and food sensation in your esophagus. Based on your description, you feel as if food is stuck in your chest after eating, and you have difficulty swallowing, which can be quite uncomfortable. You also mentioned that you have been eating quickly, which can exacerbate these symptoms.
The sensation of food feeling stuck in the esophagus can be attributed to several potential causes. One common issue is esophageal dysphagia, which refers to difficulty swallowing due to a problem with the esophagus itself. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, structural abnormalities, or motility disorders. Given your history of gastritis and the symptoms you are experiencing, it is possible that you may be dealing with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can lead to inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) and create a sensation of food being stuck.

Another possibility is esophageal spasms, which are irregular contractions of the esophagus that can cause pain and difficulty swallowing. These spasms can occur after eating, especially if you eat quickly or consume certain types of food. Stress and anxiety can also contribute to these spasms, leading to a feeling of tightness or discomfort in the chest.

You mentioned that you have been advised that you might have gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining. While gastritis primarily affects the stomach, it can also lead to symptoms that mimic esophageal issues, particularly if there is associated reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.

In terms of your eating habits, it is crucial to slow down while eating. Eating too quickly can lead to swallowing air, which can cause bloating and discomfort. Additionally, consider avoiding foods that are known to trigger reflux, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can also help alleviate symptoms.

If your symptoms persist, it is advisable to consult a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the esophagus and stomach, or a barium swallow study to assess the swallowing mechanism and identify any structural abnormalities.

In summary, your symptoms could be related to esophageal dysphagia, GERD, or esophageal spasms. Modifying your eating habits and seeking further medical evaluation will be essential in managing your symptoms effectively. If anxiety is a contributing factor, consider discussing this with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend strategies or therapies to help manage stress and its impact on your gastrointestinal health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Esophageal Issues: Symptoms, Risks, and When to Seek Help

Hello Doctor: I have been feeling nauseous these past few days, but my stomach doesn't feel uncomfortable. Instead, I have a slight tightness in my esophagus (chest area), and when I eat or drink, I feel a sense of reflux and want to vomit. Additionally, since yesterday, I h...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
If dietary adjustments and medication treatment are still ineffective, an endoscopy may be considered.

Understanding Esophageal and Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions

1. In the esophagus or throat area, there is a frequent sensation of something being stuck when swallowing saliva. 2. A history of duodenal ulcers and a constant feeling of excessive stomach acid. 3. Occasionally drinks alcohol once a month and tea 2-3 times a week. 4. Freq...

Dr. Hong Hongchang reply Internal Medicine
Esophageal and gastric acid reflux or a sensation of a foreign body in the esophagus require further examination to rule out warning signs of malignancy or esophagitis. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid smoking, alcohol, and irritating foods. If there are still concerns, ple...

Understanding Esophageal Discomfort: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. Recently, I often feel a sensation of choking while eating, as if food is getting stuck in my esophagus before it slowly digests. I consulted a family medicine physician nearby, and he suggested elevating my pillow while sleeping. After doing this, the issue has in...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms of esophageal cancer and esophagitis can sometimes be difficult to distinguish. Esophagitis is more likely to present with odynophagia (painful swallowing), while esophageal cancer often manifests as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). In any case, undergoing a...

Understanding Esophageal Issues: Symptoms of GERD or Hiatal Hernia?

Hello, I have been experiencing a burning sensation in my esophagus and chest, along with occasional nausea, especially after meals, for the past two months. I have not noticed any difficulty swallowing. Could this be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? I am concerned that it...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The symptoms are similar to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To determine if it is caused by a hiatal hernia, an endoscopy is necessary for diagnosis. However, the key point is to pay attention to your diet and body posture to see if they are contributing to the wor...