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Tests and diagnosis
By Mayo Clinic staff
Your doctor may confirm a diagnosis of esophageal spasm by these methods:
- X-rays of your esophagus. During a test called a barium swallow or an esophagram, you're given a thick liquid containing barium that temporarily coats the lining of your esophagus so it can be seen on X-ray images.
- A test to assess your swallowing muscles. During an esophageal manometry test, your doctor inserts a thin tube through your nose or mouth into your esophagus to measure the effectiveness of your esophageal muscles in the swallowing process.
- Visual exam with a scope that lets your doctor see inside your esophagus. During an upper endoscopy, a thin, hollow tube equipped with a camera is passed through your mouth and down your throat to look directly at your esophagus.
References
- Orlando RC. Diseases of the esophagus. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/201609212-3/0/1492/0.html. Accessed July 1, 2010.
- Maish M. Esophagus. In: Townsend CM, et al. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/207919050-3/0/1565/0.html. Accessed July 1, 2010.
- Kahrilas PJ, et al. Esophageal neuromuscular function and motility disorders. In: Feldman M, et al. Sleisinger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders; 2010. http://www.mdconsult.com/book/player/linkTo?type=bookHome&isbn=978-1-4160-6189-2&eid=4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-6189-2..X0001-7--TOP&uniq=200844987-3. Accessed July 1, 2010.
- Picco MP (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Fla. July 7, 2010.
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