GERD and Esophageal Spasms Everyday Health Menu NewslettersSearch GERD GERD and Esophageal Spasms Esophageal spasms are painful muscle contractions that can feel like a heart attack. Treating GERD can sometimes help control esophageal spasms. By Dennis Thompson JrMedically Reviewed by Cynthia Haines, MD Reviewed: November 18, 2009 Medically Reviewed A painful and sometimes frightening problem associated with Diffuse esophageal spasm involves the muscles contracting in an uncoordinated way, which prevents food from moving down the esophagus.Nutcracker esophagus occurs when the muscles of the esophagus contract too forcefully while swallowing. Nearly half the time, this condition is caused by GERD. The symptoms are similar for both types of esophageal spasm. They include:Chest pain similar to that of a heart attack. This symptom is reported by 80 to 90 percent of people suffering from esophageal spasms.Difficulty swallowing, or feeling like food is stuck in the throat.Heartburn similar to that produced by GERD. Acid reflux and GERD are known to prompt esophageal spasms. These spasms can also be triggered by drinking very hot or very cold liquids or by stress, as well as by unknown causes. GERD: Treatment for Esophageal Spasms People who experience GERD-related esophageal spasms can find relief by treating their GERD. The spasms tend to decrease in frequency as bouts of acid reflux decrease. Some methods of dealing with GERD include taking NEWSLETTERS Sign up for our Digestive Health Newsletter SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The Latest in GERD Treatment Options for GERD Although most cases of GERD can be effectively managed with lifestyle modifications and medications, sometimes surgery may be necessary.By Mark HenricksDecember 3, 2021 What’s the Difference Between Acid Reflux and GERD? A burning pain in your chest generally signals heartburn, right? But if you are thinking that heartburn, also known as acid reflux, is the same as gastroesophag...By Denise SchipaniDecember 1, 2021 What Is GERD? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and PreventionBy Ashley WelchAugust 27, 2021 Managing GERD in an Era of UncertaintyBy Everyday Health Guest ContributorNovember 22, 2019 Still Searching for Relief From GERDBy Sean Delshad, MD, MBAMay 24, 2019 Heartburn Causes, Symptoms, and DiagnosisBy Diana RodriguezSeptember 17, 2018 How Changes in Body Weight Affect GERD A growing body of research shows that your weight can have a significant impact on acid reflux and related symptoms.By Allison RyanJune 22, 2018 GERD Symptoms and DiagnosisBy Mark HenricksJune 19, 2018 How to Choose the Right GERD Diet Consuming smaller meals, eating slowly, and avoiding certain foods may help relieve symptoms of GERD.By Mark HenricksJune 14, 2018 New Diet to Cut Acid RefluxBy November 16, 2017 MORE IN What’s the Difference Between Acid Reflux and GERD? What Is GERD? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention 4 Natural Remedies for Reflux Due to Eosinophilic Esophagitis Wellness inspired Wellness enabled FacebookTwitterInstagramPinterestYoutubeTikTok About Us Careers Editorial Policy Newsletters Meet Our Health Expert Network Privacy Policy Health News Accessibility Statement Terms of Use Contact Us Feedback Do Not Sell My Personal Information Popular Topics AdChoices NEWSLETTERS Get the best in health and wellness SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. A PROPERTY OF EHGLogo More From Everyday Health: Castle Connolly Top Doctors DailyOM Diabetes Daily Everyday Health Care Migraine Again 1996-2022 Everyday Health, Inc. Everyday Health is among the federally registered trademarks of Everyday Health, Inc. and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Badges Badges Badges