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Schaztki's Ring
Schatzki's ring is a narrow band of tissue in the lower esophagus that can cause difficulty swallowing and chest discomfort. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers expert diagnosis and personalized, minimally invasive treatments to relieve symptoms and restore eating.
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.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) leading to chronic acid exposure
Hiatal hernia, where part of the stomach bulges into the chest cavity
Age over 40, as rings tend to develop with advancing age
Prior esophageal trauma from endoscopy, radiation, or injury
Sensation of food “sticking” in the lower chest or throat
Chest discomfort, burning, or pressure when swallowing
Regurgitation of undigested food or saliva
Occasional chest pain unrelated to heart problems
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Schatzki's Ring?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History & Physical Exam
He begins by reviewing your symptoms, including difficulty swallowing (especially solid foods), sensation of food getting stuck in the chest, or intermittent dysphagia. He also asks about heartburn, regurgitation, and history of acid reflux or esophageal procedures.
Barium Swallow (Esophagram)
This specialized X-ray test allows Dr. Scott to visualize the esophagus in motion. It is highly effective at detecting Schatzki's ring as a thin, constricting band at the lower esophagus, especially when performed with a solid bolus (e.g., marshmallow swallow technique).
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Dr. Scott uses a flexible endoscope to directly examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This helps confirm the presence of a ring, assess its size and location, and rule out other conditions such as esophagitis, strictures, or hiatal hernia. Biopsies may be taken if inflammation or Barrett's esophagus is suspected.
Esophageal Manometry (if needed)
In cases of persistent or unexplained swallowing issues, manometry may be used to evaluate esophageal muscle function and coordination, ensuring there is no underlying motility disorder.
pH Monitoring (if reflux is suspected)
If acid reflux is believed to be contributing to symptoms or the formation of the ring, ambulatory pH testing may be ordered to measure acid exposure in the lower esophagus.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Schatzki's Ring.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller, soft-food meals
Chew thoroughly with each bite
Stay upright for at least 30 minutes after eating
Avoid hard or dry foods (nuts, chips, crusty bread)
Limit caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods to reduce reflux
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
H2 blockers to reduce acid production
Antacids for quick relief of heartburn
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic dilation using a balloon or bougie to gently stretch the ring
Ring incision during endoscopy to cut and widen the narrowed tissue
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
How common is Schatzki's ring?
Studies show up to 14% of adults have a Schatzki's ring on barium X-rays, though not everyone has symptoms.
Can Schatzki's ring be cured?
Treatments like endoscopic dilation or incision can relieve symptoms, and ongoing acid reflux control helps prevent recurrence.
Can Schatzki's ring go away on its own?
Small rings rarely disappear without intervention, but diet changes and acid suppression may ease mild cases.
Is Schatzki's ring acute or chronic?
It can be either: acute rings cause sudden swallowing difficulty while chronic rings develop more slowly over months.
What risks come with endoscopic dilation?
Risks are low but can include mild bleeding or chest pain; serious complications are rare.
Do I need to fast before treatment?
Yes. You should avoid food and drink for at least six hours before your endoscopic procedure.
Will I need repeat procedures?
Some patients require follow-up dilations if the ring recurs; Dr. Scott will monitor you and recommend repeat treatment if needed.
