Overview

Oesophagal disorders are a set of medical issues of the oesophagus that interrupt the working of the long pipe-like structure transferring food from the mouth to the stomach. These issues may lead to various other health problems, weakening the digestion of the affected individual.

Heartburn, vomiting, stomachache, chest pain, burning sensation in the stomach and throat, and many other similar issues are the symptoms of the issues of the oesophagus. If these issues are not identified and treated at the right time, then it may start causing the formation of tumours, further leading to oesophagal cancer. It is important to diagnose these disorders timely for quick treatment and the best outcomes.

Diagnosis and Medical Testing for Different Types of Esophageal Disorders

Other types of oesophagal disorders have further medical tests and diagnosis methods to identify the symptoms and decide the right line of treatment. Mentioned below are a few diagnosis methods and medical tests that help to determine the symptoms:

Upper Endoscopy- People suffering from chronic acid reflux, heartburn, cancerous tumours, sudden weight loss, stomach ulcers, or digestion issues. The procedure involves the insertion of an endoscope with a camera and light at the tip to have a clear view of the inside of the digestive tract. The device helps identify any issue in the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

People experiencing abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or heartburn can be recommended to have an upper endoscopy by the doctor. The procedure usually identifies signs of inflammation, cancerous tumours, or other diseases damaging the oesophagus.

Esophagram- Esophagram is a form of x-ray of the oesophagus to identify different types of oesophagal disorders. The procedure is also known as the barium swallow test, as it involves swallowing the barium sulfate solution to get clear images of the oesophagus on the screen. The procedure involves taking live pictures of the oesophagus to identify the pipe-like structure's activity.

The test helps identify different oesophagus issues, such as achalasia, oesophagal spasms, dysphagia, hiatal hernia, GERD, etc. The tests help discover other medical problems such as blockages, ulcers, tumours, tissue changes, inflammation, and other oesophagus issues.

Oesophageal Manometry Test- The procedure helps identify the oesophagus' mortar function and lower oesophagal sphincter. Medical providers can determine whether the oesophagus and LES functions as they should. The test is advised for patients with chronic heartburn and non-cardiac chest pain, regurgitation, or acid reflux.

The procedure involves placing a catheter with sensors in the oesophagus. These sensors record the movement of the muscles when a patient swallows. The data is transmitted on a computer screen as Esophageal Pressure Topography.

Oesophageal pH Test- The test is also known as the Bravo TM pH Test. The test helps to identify the acidic level of the oesophagus. The test also helps to identify the acid refluxes observed in the oesophagus due to the stomach. The test is helpful for people who experience heartburn, chronic acid reflux, burning sensation in the throat and stomach, and other similar digestive issues.

Barium Swallow- In this test, the patient drinks a contrast material containing barium, which coats the oesophagus and stomach. X-ray images are then taken to visualise the oesophagus's shape, size, and movement. It can reveal structural abnormalities such as strictures or diverticula.

Esophageal Biopsy- Small tissue samples (biopsies) may be taken from the oesophagal lining during an endoscopy. These samples are examined under a microscope to detect inflammation, cellular changes, or signs of eosinophilic esophagitis.

Esophageal Impedance-pH Monitoring- This advanced test detects both acid and non-acid reflux events, helping to diagnose various reflux-related disorders.

Esophageal Stent Placement- In cases of oesophageal strictures or cancer, an endoscopic procedure may be used to place a stent, a tube-like device, to keep the oesophagus open.

Imaging Tests- CT scans and MRIs may be used to evaluate the extent of tumours or other structural abnormalities in the oesophagus and surrounding tissues.

Allergy Testing- In cases of eosinophilic esophagitis, allergy testing, including blood and skin tests, can help identify specific allergens triggering the condition.

Swallowing Studies- Radiologic studies such as videofluoroscopy or video manometry can assess swallowing function and detect issues such as oesophageal dysmotility or aspiration.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Gastroenterology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Esophageal disorders obstruct the digestion of food. Different tests and medical examinations help identify the oesophagal issue's type and symptoms. These diagnostic steps may differ based on the type of the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the different types of diagnosis and medical testing for oesophagal conditions? A. Upper endoscopy, gastrointestinal x-rays, oesophagal manometry, and oesophagal pH test are some of the diagnostic procedures helpful in identifying the symptoms of issues in the oesophagus.

Q. What are the different symptoms of oesophagal disorders that need a medical diagnosis? A. Heartburn, difficulty in swallowing, chronic acid reflux, and non-cardiac chest pain are symptoms that need a diagnosis to get to the root of the oesophagal issue.

Q. Which is the major test used to diagnose oesophagal disorder? A. Upper Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGD) is a key diagnostic procedure for many oesophagal disorders. A flexible, lighted tube with a camera on the end (endoscope) is passed through the mouth and down the oesophagus. The doctor can examine the oesophagal lining, take biopsies, and even perform specific treatments during this procedure.