Are you experiencing a feeling of thickness or tightness in your esophagus?
This sensation can happen with lupus for several reasons. Lupus can cause inflammation in the muscles of your esophagus, affecting how they contract and relax. In fact, up to 72 percent of people with lupus experience problems with esophageal muscle Show Full Answer
Are you experiencing a feeling of thickness or tightness in your esophagus?
This sensation can happen with lupus for several reasons. Lupus can cause inflammation in the muscles of your esophagus, affecting how they contract and relax. In fact, up to 72 percent of people with lupus experience problems with esophageal muscle movement.
Here are common causes of this feeling:
- Esophageal motility disorders: The muscles in your esophagus may not push food down properly, creating a sensation of thickness or food being stuck
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels around the nerves in your digestive tract can affect swallowing
- Acid reflux or GERD: These conditions are common with lupus and can cause throat tightness
- Swollen lymph nodes: During flares, lymph nodes in your neck can swell and create pressure
- Thyroid problems: Thyroid nodules are more common in people with lupus and can cause a choking sensation
About 13 percent of people with lupus experience difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Symptoms include feeling like something is stuck in your throat or chest, pain while swallowing, or taking a long time to eat.
It's important to talk with your rheumatologist about this symptom. They can determine the cause and adjust your treatment plan, recommend exercises, or refer you to specialists like a speech therapist or endocrinologist if needed.
February 22
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