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Disorders of the Esophagus. The most common disorders of the esophagus often involve either an obstruction or a backward flow of food and gastric juice (gastroesophageal reflux). Foreign bodies, accidentally swallowed and lodged in the esophageal passage, can obstruct the flow of foods and fluids, as can malignant or benign tumors. The term achalasia is used to describe a particular disturbance in motility which leads to obstruction at the level of the cardiac sphincter.

Esophagitis, inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the esophagus, may occur in conjunction with gastroenteritis or as a result of reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus. The symptoms of hiatal hernia are due in large part to this type of reflux. Hiatal hernia is a protrusion of the stomach, colon, or other intestinal organs through the esophageal hiatus, a narrow opening in the diaphragm through which the esophagus normally passes. When the herniation occurs the normal downward passage of food is interrupted.

Esophageal varices are varicose veins of the esophagus and occur most often as a result of obstruction in the portal circulation, especially in portal hypertension. They are potentially dangerous since they tend to rupture easily and may result in serious hemorrhage. Visual examination of the interior lining of the esophagus is accomplished by esophagoscopy.