Pylorospasm
What is Pylorospasm?
Pylorospasm is a condition in which the muscles of the pylorus of the stomach contract involuntarily and can be responsible for a number of different symptoms. The pylorus is the sphincter muscle at the bottom of the stomach that prevents food from passing back into the esophagus. When a pylorospasm occurs the sphincter muscle can become so tight that it completely cuts off or restricts the flow of food and digestive enzymes to the small intestine.
Symptoms of pylorospasm can include abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Less commonly, it can also present with difficulty swallowing, heartburn, or bloating after eating. Pylorospasms can also contribute to conditions like gastroparesis or delayed gastric emptying, which is a condition in which the stomach takes too long to empty its contents.
Causes of Pylorospasm
The exact cause of pylorospasm is not fully understood, but there are a number of potential contributing factors. These include inflammation or irritation of the pyloric sphincter, underlying medical conditions like ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), certain medications, and in some cases, genetics.
Treatment of Pylorospasm
- Treating underlying medical conditions such as ulcers or GERD.
- Avoiding foods that cause heartburn or other symptoms of GERD.
- Eating several small meals instead of one or two large meals.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Getting enough fiber in the diet.
- Taking medication to relax the pyloric sphincter or reduce stomach acid production.
In some cases, surgery may be required to repair the pylorus or to reduce any inflammation that might be causing the problem. Surgery is generally recommended only for severe cases. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment for your particular condition.