An esophageal stricture is a narrowing of the esophagus, often caused by scarring or inflammation. It can lead to difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and the regurgitation of food or liquids. It is ...

The esophageal sphincters are bands of muscles at the top and bottom of the esophagus — the muscular tube that passes food and drink from the mouth to the stomach. Esophageal sphincters open and close ...

Heartburn, accompanied by a burning sensation in the chest or throat when swallowing, may be a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic condition in which stomach acid frequently ...