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Schaztki's Ring

Schatzki's ring is a thin tissue band at the lower esophagus that narrows the swallowing passage, causing discomfort or difficulty with solid foods. In Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatments for relief and comfort.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Schatzki's Ring?

Schatzki's ring is a thin band of tissue that forms at the bottom of the esophagus. It narrows the passage for food and drinks, often leading to mild or moderate trouble swallowing.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Acid reflux (GERD): Long-term acid exposure damages the esophageal lining and promotes ring formation.
  • Age over 40: The chance of developing a Schatzki's ring increases with age.
  • Hiatal hernia: This condition worsens acid reflux and can contribute to ring development.
  • Family history: A genetic predisposition to esophageal disorders may play a role.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Difficulty swallowing solid foods such as meat or bread.
  • Sensation of food getting stuck in the chest or throat.
  • Chest pain or pressure during or after meals.
  • Intermittent heartburn or acid reflux.

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Schatzki's Ring?

Medical History & Symptom Review

Dr. Chadha begins by discussing your swallowing difficulties, heartburn episodes, and any related risk factors such as acid reflux or hiatal hernia.

Barium Swallow X-Ray

A contrast study in which you drink barium liquid to highlight the esophageal lining and reveal any narrowing caused by the ring.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Using a thin, flexible scope, Dr. Chadha visually inspects the lower esophagus to confirm the presence, size, and exact location of the Schatzki's ring.

Esophageal Manometry

This test measures the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions to rule out motility disorders and ensure accurate diagnosis.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for Schatzki's Ring at GastroDoxs.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

  • Eat small meals and chew food thoroughly
  • Avoid dry or tough foods like steak or crusty bread
  • Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and spicy dishes
  • Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after eating

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
  • H2 blockers to reduce heartburn episodes
  • Ongoing acid suppression may help shrink the ring over time

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Endoscopic dilation � gently stretches the ring using a balloon or specialized tool
  • Ring incision � a precise cut to widen the esophageal opening (in select cases)
  • Most patients resume normal eating within 1�2 days after treatment
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Schatzki's ring?

Schatzki's ring is a thin band of tissue at the lower esophagus that narrows the passage for food and drinks.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Trouble swallowing solid foods, feeling food stuck in your chest or throat, chest pain or pressure after meals, and occasional heartburn.

Can Schatzki's ring cause pain?

Yes. Some people feel chest or throat pain or pressure when swallowing.

How is Schatzki's ring diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a barium swallow X-ray and an upper endoscopy (EGD) to visualize the ring directly.

What treatment options are available?

Treatment may include dietary adjustments, acid-reducing medications, and minimally invasive endoscopic dilation or incision.

Which treatment is best?

Dr. Chadha will recommend a personalized plan based on ring size, symptoms, and overall health.

Can diet help manage symptoms?

Yes. Eating small, well-chewed meals and avoiding dry or tough foods can ease swallowing difficulties.

Is endoscopic dilation safe?

Yes. Dilation is a low-risk procedure that gently stretches the ring to improve swallowing.

What is the recovery time after dilation?

Most patients resume normal eating within 24�48 hours after the procedure.

When should I see a doctor?

Schedule an appointment if you experience frequent swallowing problems or chest pain after eating.

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