Crooked Esophagus: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Causes of a Crooked Esophagus

- Achalasia: This is a rare condition in which the muscles of the esophagus don't work properly, causing food and liquid to collect in the esophagus. This can lead to a crooked esophagus.

- Zenker's diverticulum: This is a pouch that forms in the upper esophagus. It can cause food and liquid to collect in the pouch, leading to a crooked esophagus.

- Esophageal strictures: These are narrowings of the esophagus that can be caused by scarring or inflammation. They can cause food and liquid to collect in the esophagus, leading to a crooked esophagus.

- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. It can cause inflammation and scarring of the esophagus, which can lead to a crooked esophagus.

- Congenital defects: Some people are born with a crooked esophagus. These defects can be caused by problems during development in the womb.

- Tumors: Tumors of the esophagus or surrounding structures can also cause a crooked esophagus.