ESOPHAGUS
Description:
As part of the alimentary canal, food digested from the mouth travels to the pharynx or throat, and will eventually connect to the esophagus. Surrounding the walls of this tube is a type of tissue called mucosa, which keeps the lining of the organ moist to facilitate the movement of consumed items. The esophagus is separated into two parts: The upper esophageal sphincter or UES prevents the movement of food into the windpipe, while the lower esophageal sphincter (also referred to as LES or the cardiac sphincter helps prevent stomach acid from moving out. Within the esophagus, the process of peristalsis occurs, which is a series of muscular contractions the pushes the food down, which is why food is able to still move towards excretion even when you are not standing.
Diseases and Conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
Caused by aging, this results in a weakening of the sphincters, allowing for the flow of stomach acids into the esophagus.
Achalasia
The enlarging of the upper esophagus due to denervation, which can lead to regurgitation and general dysphagia.
Esophageal Cancer
The most serious type of Dysphagia, or swallowing difficulties which tends to be caused by alcohol consumption and smoking.
Esophageal Web and Ring
This is the gathering of tissue near the bottom of the organ, which causes dysphagia.
Esophageal varices
Bulges in the veins of the esophagus due to cirrhosis, which makes them vulnerable to bleeding.