Cardiospasm

Definition

Definition of Cardiospasm
Cardiospasm is esophageal motility disorder involving the smooth muscle of the esophagus and the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and characterized by aperistalsis and failure to relax the smooth muscle fibers LES, thus causing functional obstruction of the esophagus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Cardiospasm
Dysphagia for solid foods and liquids, regurgitation, chest discomfort/pain, weight loss. May present recurrent pneumonia secondary to aspiration.

Causes

Causes of Cardiospasm
Consult with your doctor.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cardiospasm
Consult with your doctor.

Treatment

Treatment of Cardiospasm
Palliation of symptoms and prevention of complication by elimination of outflow resistance. Effective peristalsis is rarely restored.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Cardiospasm
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or heartburn. Achalasia patients have an augmented danger of developing Barrett's esophagus or Barrett's mucosa, a premalignant form which may result to esophageal cancer in a period of years. Aspiration pneumonia: substances like food and liquid are preserved in the esophagus and can be drawn into the lungs particularly during sleep in a horizontal position.

Prevention

Prevention of Cardiospasm
Consult with your doctor.