Pain of the esophagus and trachea | Pain of the esophagus

Pain of the esophagus and trachea

A rarer symptom of esophageal pain is an additional pain of the windpipe. Especially in severe reflux diseases, the trachea can be affected by a reflux of the stomach contents. It is also strongly irritated by the highly concentrated acid in the stomach.

It can lead to coughing attacks and hoarseness, as well as pain in the larynx and throat. Not infrequently, inflammation of the respiratory tract or lungs can also occur in this way. Important procedure in a known reflux disease is the change of position in bed.

Affected persons should lift the chest overnight with a raised headboard or pillow, so that it is not due to gravity to reflux of the stomach contents can occur. As part of the digestive tract, the esophagus (Latin: esophagus) connects the oral cavity with the stomach entrance. The ring-shaped esophagus begins at the level of the larynx and runs from there between the trachea and the spine into the thorax.

In humans, the length of the esophagus is usually about 25 centimeters. When at rest, the lower end of the esophagus is so tightly closed that it is normally impossible for acid gastric fluid to rise. During the act of swallowing, food is transported by continuous, ring-shaped muscle contractions (peristalsis) and the lower sphincter muscle of the esophagus is opened reflectorically.

This fact can be proven experimentally. If the ingested food were guided purely by the effect of gravity in the stomach, it would be impossible to ingest liquid during a headstand. Due to the peristaltic transport, however, this is possible without any problems.

Due to the anatomical structure and the direct connection to the stomach, pain in the esophagus can have a variety of causes. In many cases, pain in the area of the esophagus can be caused by harmless diseases. However, an incorrect diet, the consumption of tobacco products and/or the frequent intake of medication can also seriously affect the mucous membrane of the esophagus and lead to pain.

In general, a specialist should be consulted promptly before, during or after a meal in case of frequent complaints. If therapy is initiated at an early stage, the prognosis of the most common diseases that lead to pain in the esophagus can be significantly improved.