Nutcracker esophagus is a form of esophageal spasm.
It is in the same category of esophageal motility disorders asjackhammer esophagusand diffuse esophageal spasms.
Esophageal spasms may be more common in Caucasian people and occur more frequently in women than men.
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The older you become the more likely you are to get esophageal spasms.
Spasms of the esophageal muscles can cause food to become stuck or lodged in the esophagus.
It is not known exactly what causes nutcracker esophagus.
Some research suggests that people with nutcracker esophagus may have an esophagus that is hypersensitive and stiff.
Several medications are used to treat this condition and include calcium channel blockers, nitrates, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors.
Injections of botulinum toxin above the lower esophageal sphincter can temporarily relieve symptoms by blocking the release of acetylcholine.
Proton pump inhibitors can help to relieve symptoms related to acid reflux.
One of the most effective medications for esophageal motility disorders including nutcracker esophagus is tricyclic antidepressants.
The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and under sedation.
You will receive special instruction about not eating and drinking for a certain time period before your procedure.
As previously mentioned when used to treat nutcracker esophagus there is a risk that symptoms will worsen.
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