Esophageal disorders encompass a wide range of conditions affecting the structure, motility, or lining of the esophagus, leading to impaired swallowing and discomfort. Common esophageal conditions include strictures (narrowing), motility disorders such as achalasia, inflammatory conditions, varices, and malignant disease. These disorders may arise from chronic reflux, neuromuscular dysfunction, infections, systemic diseases, or vascular conditions.

Patients may present with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, food impaction, regurgitation, chronic cough, or unexplained weight loss. Dysphagia may be progressive or intermittent and can involve solids, liquids, or both, providing important diagnostic clues. Esophageal chest pain can mimic cardiac pain and requires careful evaluation.

Diagnosis involves upper gastrointestinal endoscopy as a primary tool to visualize the esophageal lining, identify inflammation, strictures, or masses, and obtain biopsies when indicated. Additional investigations such as barium swallow studies, esophageal manometry, and advanced imaging are used to assess motility disorders and functional abnormalities.

Management depends on the underlying diagnosis and severity. Treatment strategies may include endoscopic interventions to relieve narrowing, address bleeding, or improve swallowing, as well as surgical or minimally invasive procedures for selected conditions. Nutritional support and close follow-up are essential to prevent complications such as aspiration, malnutrition, or progression of disease.

Early diagnosis and timely intervention significantly improve outcomes and help maintain safe swallowing and digestive health.