Learn About Lower Esophageal Ring
A lower esophageal ring is an abnormal ring of tissue that forms where the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) and stomach meet.
Esophagogastric ring; Schatzki's ring; Dysphagia - esophageal ring; Swallowing problems - esophageal ring
A lower esophageal ring is a narrowing of the esophagus that occurs in a small number of people. The cause of the problem is unclear, but many believe that it is caused by acid reflux.
Narrowing of the esophagus may also be caused by:
- Injury
- Tumors
- Esophageal stricture
For most people, a lower esophageal ring does not cause symptoms.
The most common symptom is the feeling that food (especially solid food) is stuck in the lower neck or under the breastbone (sternum).
A device called a dilator is passed through the narrowed area to stretch the ring. Sometimes, a balloon is placed in the area and inflated, to help widen (dilate) the ring.
Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York
David Katzka is a Gastroenterologist in New York, New York. Dr. Katzka is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lower Esophageal Ring. His top areas of expertise are Esophagitis, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, Barrett Esophagus, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy.
Enloe Medical Center
Peter Bangsund is a Gastroenterologist in Chico, California. Dr. Bangsund is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lower Esophageal Ring. His top areas of expertise are Esophagitis, Colitis, Lower Esophageal Ring, Colonoscopy, and Gastrectomy.
Advocate Medical Group Gastroenterology
Hareth Raddawi is a Gastroenterologist in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Dr. Raddawi is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Lower Esophageal Ring. His top areas of expertise are Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Bile Duct Obstruction, Cholestasis, Gastrectomy, and Endoscopy.
Swallowing problems may return. You may need repeat treatment.
Contact your health care provider if you have swallowing problems.
Published Date: October 30, 2024
Published By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Gastroenterologist, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
DeVault KR. Symptoms of esophageal disease. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 13.
Madanick RD, Kaila V. Anatomy, histology, embryology, and developmental anomalies of the esophagus. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 43.