Which condition results from scar tissue or damage to the esophagus and causes swallowing difficulties?

• A. GERD
• B. Dysphagia
• C. Esophageal stricture
• D. Pyrosis

Answer: (C)

Scar tissue forming in the esophagus can narrow the passage, making it harder for food to move down. This narrowing is called an esophageal stricture, and it directly causes swallowing difficulties, especially with solid foods. The esophageal stricture is the specific structural change that creates the problem, rather than just a symptom or a reflux-related sensation.

Dysphagia describes the act of difficulty swallowing itself, but it isn’t the cause. GERD is chronic acid reflux that can irritate the esophagus and, over time, contribute to scarring, but GERD refers to the reflux process rather than the narrowed passage. Pyrosis is heartburn, a burning sensation from reflux, which is a symptom—not the narrowing or scar tissue.