Common Causes of Gullet Pain

Gullet pain, which is medically introduced as esophagitis, indicates the inflammation of the esophagus’ lining. Taking into account that it’s a commonly met condition, in this article, we’ll discuss the most frequent causes attributed to this pain.

• Neuromuscular disorder

According to Web MD, the underlying reason to esophageal spasms isn’t entirely known. However, an impaired neuromuscular function is considered a common cause of gullet pain. That’s because various doctors agreed on one thing: the condition is triggered by an interruption of a nerve activity that stimulates the swallowing action of the esophagus. Apart from impulse issues, extremely cold or hot foods may determine the appearance of spasms.

• Gastroesophageal reflux

Gullet pain may also be determined by the digestive juices in the stomach. These fluids move around the lower part of the esophagus. This condition is medically referred to as esophageal acid reflux. Experts indicate that as the muscles contract, the lower end of the esophagus is closed. Nonetheless, when the muscles don’t function accordingly, it can cause acid reflux.

Medicine Net informs us that this condition triggers the irritation of the inner linings of the esophagus, which is why it’s called gastroesophageal reflux, aka GERD. Furthermore, vomiting may also be a cause of gullet pain. Even worse, frequent vomiting may be translated into acidic damage of the esophagus. In the case of forceful vomiting episodes, the inner lining is torn, which increases the severity of the condition.

• Hiatal Hernia

A hiatal hernia is known as the protrusion part of the stomach. Experts indicate that it may hinder the muscle at the low end of the esophagus to function accordingly. Therefore, Medicine Net clarifies that such a structural irregularity may determine an increased amount of acid refluxing into the organ.

• Infection

Medicine Net further outlines that in many instances, an infection may be the triggering cause of gullet pain. According to the source, bacteria, viruses, and fungi may inflame the esophagus, which, afterward, causes pain. And, a commonly met cause is the yeast infection, Candida. People who suffer from diseases have weak immunity systems. Therefore, they are more prone to be affected by the infection, in particularly. Furthermore, individuals who are administering antibiotics, steroids, or undergoing chemotherapy may experience this type of pain. Herpes, a common viral infection, may also develop inside the esophagus as the immune system isn’t functioning accordingly.

• Lifestyle choices

According to experts, excessive smoking, drinking, and eating may determine this type of pain. In addition, lifestyle and dietary choices may initiate the condition. For instance, spicy, fatty, and acidic foods should be avoided. Additionally, being overweight also increases the pressure applied to the stomach, which may result in the reflux.

Those being said, gullet pain may be caused by one of the factors explained above, or by a combination of them. Researchers are yet to discover the primary cause of the condition. Nonetheless, if you’re suffering from it, ideally, you should address your concerns to a doctor, to prevent the worsening of the condition.