Esophagus Problems in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is the esophagus?
As part of the digestive system, the esophagus is a muscular structure that connects the mouth (and throat) to the stomach. The tissues lining the walls of the esophagus, combined with the esophageal muscles, are what move food and liquids into the stomach. The esophagus contains an upper and lower portion (or sphincter), each of which performs varying functions. The upper esophageal sphincter is the portion closest to the throat. It keeps food and liquids from entering the windpipe. The lower esophageal sphincter is located near the stomach and serves to prevent stomach contents from pushing back up into the esophagus. In some instances, problems may develop that impact the ability of the esophagus to function properly. For more information about the esophagus and what to do if you experience issues, contact our GI doctors at Colorado Gastroenterology in Denver, CO.
What role does the esophagus play in the body?
As one of the most essential components of the digestive system, the esophagus is responsible for propelling food from the mouth to the stomach through a series of muscle contractions. Concurrently, these esophageal muscle contractions keep liquids and foods from passing through the throat and into the windpipe, and from the stomach back up into the esophagus.
The esophagus also plays a role in the activities listed below:
- Breathing
- Swallowing
- Vomiting
- Hiccuping
- Burping
Issues or dysfunction involving the muscle contractions that occur can lead to an esophageal condition. Contact our team of GI specialists at Colorado Gastroenterology for additional information on how we can treat esophageal issues in our Denver, CO office.
What conditions affect the esophagus?
Conditions affecting the esophagus can arise if the tissues in the area become inflamed or when the sphincters do not fully close. These conditions can include:
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn: A symptom that occurs when the stomach acid regurgitates back up into the esophagus
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Chronic acid reflux
- Esophagitis: Inflammation of the esophagus
- Esophageal stricture: Narrowing of the esophagus
Without proper and timely treatment, GERD and other esophageal conditions can lead to the formation of scar tissue, ulcers, and other tissue damage in the esophagus. If an esophageal condition is suspected, it is extremely important to seek care from a specialist. The team at Colorado Gastroenterology in Denver, CO is proud to offer personalized care for esophageal conditions.
When should I get treatment for esophagus troubles?
Treatment may be necessary when one or more of the following factors take place:
- Signs or symptoms of the conditions listed above
- Frequent, uncomfortable heartburn or acid reflux
- Difficulting swallowing
- Esophageal pain
- Vomiting
- Burping (excess gas)
- Little or no relief with over-the-counter remedies
If you experience any of these concerns, or your provider has recommended that you see a specialist for esophageal care, please connect with our board-certified physicians at Colorado Gastroenterology to explore your next steps.
Address problems with expert solutions
Address your esophagus issues today by scheduling an appointment in our Denver, CO office. The team will do everything they can to help you with your issues so that you can experience relief. Connect with us today at Colorado Gastroenterology to get started.
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Dr. Sieja listened to what was ailing me during my visit and straightforward on what needed to be done next. I was happy with my visit.
Very pleasant visit. The steps to diagnose my condition were explained to me and I felt quite comfortable with this doctor.
Dr Rufner is a caring physician and listens intently to concerns.
Dr. Rufner finds a way to make what could be a “difficult” to discuss medical issue feel like a friendly conversation with a really, really smart friend.
Have been going to her for a number of years. Always satisfied with my visits. Informative and answers all questions.
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