Esophageal Stricture Causes & Risks

Causes

Esophageal stricture is typically caused by scar tissue that develops as a result of the following:

• Chronic heartburn , known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)—a condition where stomach acid flows into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the lower chest
• Prolonged use of a nasogastric tube (a tube that is inserted through the nose to the stomach)
• Ingestion of corrosive substances, such as household cleaning agents
• Treatment of esophageal varices (enlarged veins in the esophagus)
• Injuries caused by an endoscope (a thin, lighted tube used to see inside the body)
• Esophageal cancer
• Injuries caused by medications that can irritate the esophagus (such as some medications to treat osteoporosis and some antibiotics)

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Scarring, due to acid irritation, increases your chances of developing esophageal stricture. The most common cause of esophageal stricture is GERD. If you have this risk factor, tell your doctor.