# What are the available treatment options for diffuse esophageal spasm? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/diffuse-esophageal-spasm-treatment-options Language: en Category: gastroenterology Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.630Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:53.630Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/diffuse-esophageal-spasm-treatment-options Treatment for diffuse esophageal spasm aims to alleviate symptoms and reduce the frequency of spasms. The choice of treatment depends on the frequency and severity of the spasms and may include dietary adjustments, medications, or, in some cases, surgical procedures. It is advisable to begin with lifestyle modifications before progressing to more invasive therapeutic options. ## Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments If esophageal spasms occur intermittently, your doctor may recommend avoiding extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as these can be triggers for spasms [\[4\]](). Sucking on peppermint lozenges can also be helpful, as peppermint oil acts to relax smooth muscles and may relieve esophageal spasms [\[4\]](). It is also beneficial to identify and avoid the specific foods and beverages that trigger your spasms [\[4\]](). ## Medical Treatments Several types of medication can be used to help treat diffuse esophageal spasm. Your doctor may prescribe proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) if it is associated with the spasms [\[4\]](). Certain antidepressants, such as imipramine, may also be used to help reduce the sensation of pain in the esophagus [\[4\]](). Additionally, medications are available to relax the swallowing muscles, such as calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem) or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into the esophagus, which can reduce the severity of the spasms [\[4\]](). ## Surgical Procedures and Interventions In cases where symptoms do not respond to medication and lifestyle adjustments, surgical procedures may be considered. One such procedure is a myotomy, which involves cutting the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus to weaken esophageal contractions [\[4\]](). However, there are no long-term studies on the effectiveness of this approach for diffuse esophageal spasm; therefore, it is generally not recommended unless other treatments have failed [\[4\]](). There is also a newer, less invasive procedure known as Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy (POEM), where an endoscope is inserted through the mouth to cut the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus [\[4\]](). This procedure is also considered only when other treatments have not been successful [\[4\]](). ## When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention It is important to seek immediate medical help if you experience chest pain accompanied by shortness of breath, or pain in the jaw or arm. These symptoms could be signs of a serious cardiac event [\[1\]](). If your diffuse esophageal spasm symptoms persist even with treatment, or if you experience difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing, you should contact your healthcare provider [\[3\]](). Visiting a gastroenterologist can help determine the best treatment plan for your condition [\[Diffuse Esophageal Spasm: Non-Cardiac Chest Pain, Diagnosis, and Treatment (Arabic)\]](). ## Medical references - [Esophagus Disorders]() - [Esophageal spasms - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic]() - [Achalasia]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/diffuse-esophageal-spasm-treatment-options#answer