Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD Esophageal spasms cause painful chest contractions and affect swallowing and digestion.Medications and peppermint oil can help relieve esophageal spasm ... Dear Dr. Gott: About once a month, I get esophageal spasms, diagnosed as such by my doctor.

Understanding the Context

Can you tell me what causes the spasms, how they could be prevented and what to do when they occur? I know ... Researchers sought to determine the effect of long-term opioid exposure on esophageal motility, using a large cohort. Dysphagia occurs in nearly 2 of 3 individuals receiving treatment with opioids and ...

Key Insights

Achalasia is the best understood example of an esophageal motility disorder and characterized by esophageal aperistalsis and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. The histopathology ... Triggers refer to the experience of having an emotional reaction to a disturbing topic (such as violence or the mention of suicide) in the media or a social setting. Triggers can be anything from a holiday to a perfume scent to a loud voice. But how do triggers form, and what can you do if you’re triggered?

Final Thoughts

The good news is that triggers can be understood and managed so that you can control them rather than letting them control you. Here’s how to do it in five steps. Emotional triggers (or mental health/psychological triggers) are environmental, interpersonal, sensory or cognitive situations that spark sudden, intense negative reactions.