Food in esophagus causing other injury Save
ICD-10 code: T18.128
Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes
Food In Esophagus Causing Other Injury
Food getting stuck in the esophagus is a common problem that many people experience. However, most of the time, it is not a serious issue and can be resolved by drinking water or taking some antacid. Nevertheless, sometimes the food can cause serious injury to the esophagus, leading to more significant health problems.
The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. When we eat, the food travels through the esophagus and into the stomach. However, if the food gets stuck in the esophagus, it can cause injury and damage to the lining of the esophagus. This can lead to a range of problems, including:
- Esophageal perforation: This is a rare but severe complication that can occur if food gets stuck in the esophagus and causes a tear in the lining. This can lead to chest pain, difficulty breathing, and other serious symptoms.
- Esophageal stricture: If the esophagus is injured repeatedly, it can become narrow and constricted, making it difficult to swallow food and causing pain and discomfort.
- Esophageal reflux: When the esophagus is injured, it can weaken the muscles that keep the stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn and other digestive problems.
If you experience any symptoms of food getting stuck in your esophagus, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy, a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your esophagus and identify any issues.
Prevention is the best way to avoid injury to the esophagus from food. Chew your food thoroughly, and take small bites to make sure that the food is small enough to be swallowed easily. Also, avoid eating too quickly, as this can cause food to become stuck in the esophagus.
Finally, if you have a history of esophageal problems, talk to your doctor about any specific precautions you should take to prevent injury to your esophagus while eating.
In conclusion, food getting stuck in the esophagus can cause serious injury and lead to a range of health problems. If you experience any symptoms of food getting stuck in your esophagus, seek medical attention immediately. Prevention is the best way to avoid injury, so take care to chew your food thoroughly and take small bites.