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Jackhammer Esophagus
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating jackhammer esophagus, a painful swallowing disorder marked by powerful, repetitive esophageal spasms. With personalized care, advanced testing, invasive procedures, he helps patients regain fully comfortable eating and daily life.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What is Jackhammer Esophagus?
Jackhammer Esophagus is a rare condition where the esophagus muscles contract too hard, causing chest pain, trouble swallowing, or discomfort.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Acid reflux (GERD) irritating the esophageal lining
Stress or anxiety triggering or worsening spasms
Hiatal hernia allowing stomach acid to back up
Certain medications (some asthma or heart drugs)
Age 30-60, with a higher incidence in women
Signs and Symptoms
Intense chest pain or pressure, often mistaken for a heart attack
Difficulty swallowing solids and liquids (dysphagia)
Regurgitation of food or liquid back into the throat
Frequent heartburn or a sour/acidic taste in the mouth
Unintentional weight loss due to reduced food intake
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He discusses your chest or epigastric pain, swallowing difficulties, reflux symptoms and reviews your risk factors.
High-Resolution Manometry
Measures the strength, timing and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions to detect hypercontractile (jackhammer) spasms.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Visualizes the esophageal lining for inflammation, strictures or other abnormalities.
Allows for biopsies if needed to rule out alternative causes of pain.
pH‐Impedance Monitoring
Tracks both acid and non‐acid reflux events to determine if reflux is aggravating your symptoms.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for jackhammer esophagus.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce esophageal strain
Avoid spicy, greasy foods, caffeine, and alcohol to minimize irritation
Remain upright for at least 30 minutes after eating
Incorporate stress-relief techniques such as breathing exercises
Quit smoking and skip carbonated beverages
2. Medications
Muscle relaxers (e.g., calcium channel blockers or nitrates) to calm spasms
Acid reducers (PPIs or H2 blockers) to control reflux
Low-dose antidepressants to help modulate pain
Botox injections in select cases to relax the esophageal muscle
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy) to precisely cut and relax the tight muscle layer
Pneumatic dilation to gently stretch the esophagus and relieve obstruction
Heller myotomy for severe or refractory cases requiring surgical intervention
On-site high-resolution manometry and endoscopy for ongoing assessment and guidance
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is jackhammer esophagus?
Jackhammer esophagus is a motility disorder where the esophageal muscles contract too forcefully and frequently, making swallowing painful and difficult.
What causes jackhammer esophagus?
Common triggers include acid reflux (GERD), stress or anxiety, hiatal hernia, and certain medications that affect muscle activity.
Does jackhammer esophagus go away on its own?
While the condition may improve with lifestyle changes and treatment, many patients require medical or procedural intervention to achieve lasting relief.
How is jackhammer esophagus treated?
Treatment options range from dietary modifications and medications (muscle relaxers, acid reducers, low-dose antidepressants) to minimally invasive procedures like POEM or pneumatic dilation.
Is jackhammer esophagus dangerous?
It isn't life-threatening but can significantly impact eating, nutrition, and quality of life if left untreated.
How long does treatment take?
Some patients notice symptom relief within a few weeks of starting medication and diet changes. Recovery from endoscopic or surgical procedures may take longer, depending on the intervention.
Can stress make jackhammer esophagus worse?
Yes. Stress and anxiety can amplify esophageal spasms. Incorporating stress-relief techniques like breathing exercises or meditation can help control symptoms.
