What are Some Common Esophageal Conditions?

7/8/2022

Found in the center of the chest, the esophagus is the first portion of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) tract. Even though the esophagus can differ in size, disorders of the esophagus can impact anyone. Whether you require acid reflux relief, treatment for Barrett's esophagus, or treatment for esophageal cancer, finding the right medical practitioners to help you is important.

When you’re searching for the options to manage esophageal issues, it's important to have an experienced and dedicated team of digestive health providers you can count on. At GastroArkansas, our GI providers are available to assist. Request a visit with our team today to receive treatment for esophageal disorders in Little Rock, AR.

What percentage of people are affected by esophageal conditions?

Esophageal disorders affect numerous individuals throughout the United States. Per the American College of Gastroenterology, gastroesophageal reflux disease, often simply called GERD, is experienced by a fifth of the nation's population, while esophageal cancer is among the top 10 most commonly diagnosed cancers across the globe. Some types of esophageal cancers are linked to lifestyle factors, like the use of tobacco and alcohol use, while others are linked to chronic acid reflux in people who have GERD.

On average, acid reflux impacts approximately one-third of adults, and the chronic allergic inflammatory disease eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) impacts about one in 2,000 people. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can affect one in six adults, per the Dysphagia Research Society.

If you believe you’re having esophageal problems and are searching for the right approach for care, you aren't alone. Request a consultation at GastroArkansas near you. We can identify and address your condition so that you get relief from your symptoms.

What are some of the common esophageal conditions?

People may start to experience certain symptoms affecting esophageal function, such as trouble swallowing, heartburn, chest pain while eating, or food getting caught in the esophagus. These symptoms may signal esophageal problems that require care. Common conditions involving the esophagus are:

  • Eosinophilic esophagitis
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Dysphagia
  • GERD
  • Esophagitis
  • Barrett’s esophagus
  • Acid reflux

To find esophageal treatment in Little Rock, AR, request a consultation with our team. We can work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your individualized needs. Whether it's managing acid reflux symptoms or addressing esophagitis, our team can provide reliable care when you need it most.

When should you seek treatment from a GI specialist?

Getting esophageal care from a gastroenterologist may be necessary in the event you notice symptoms that last in excess of 14 days. It's also essential to seek treatment if the symptoms are interfering with your sleep, if you experience any abrupt shifts in the occurrence or severity of your symptoms, or if you have severe pain or discomfort.

Esophageal conditions can impact individuals in all age groups. If you or a family member are experiencing esophageal symptoms, you don’t have to face them alone. When you arrange a visit with our GI experts at GastroArkansas, we will help ensure you get the individualized treatment you deserve. Our gastroenterology specialists enjoy delivering treatments that have a positive effect on your health.

Esophageal treatment in Little Rock, AR

At GastroArkansas, we’re pleased to be a team of providers who can address the common esophageal issues that are interfering with your health. To discover more about these conditions and to get specialized esophageal care from a Little Rock, AR gastroenterologist you can trust, request an appointment and connect with our office today.