Final answer:
If an esophageal stricture develops, initial treatment options include medication, dietary and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, esophageal dilation or surgery may be needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
If an esophageal stricture develops, it can be treated using various methods. Initial treatment options include medication to reduce inflammation and acid reflux, as well as dietary and lifestyle changes to decrease the amount and acidity of reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. For example, avoiding trigger foods and beverages, eating smaller meals, and elevating the head of the bed can help alleviate symptoms.
In more severe cases, where strictures cause significant difficulty in swallowing or result in complications like frequent choking, the treatment approach may involve esophageal dilation or surgery. Esophageal dilation involves gently stretching the narrowed area of the esophagus to widen it and improve swallowing function. Surgery, such as an esophageal bypass or stricture resection, may be necessary to remove or bypass the narrowed segment.