esophageal manometry

[Jaimy]

What is the likelihood that an esophageal manometry would have a false negative?

I have had what I can only describe as esophageal spasms- they relax when I eat and drink, but then it feels as if my esophagus tightens up 15-20 minutes later and stays that way for hours. It feels like I have food stuck in my throat from my neck all the way to my stomach.

I had a manometry and it was "normal"!??

I had a hard time with the manometry and the tech couldnt' get an accurate resting pressure because I couldn't hold off swallowing long enough.

Would a barium swallow be likely to show the problem?

[Jaimy]

Thank you for your response. I had a barium swallow, but it still failed to identify the cause of my esophageal discomfort.

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hello,
Esophageal spasms are uncoordinated, irregular powerful contractions of the esophagus. They are commonly seen in achalasia, gastro esophageal reflux disease, or any disruption in the nerve activity which coordinates esophageal swallowing.  There can be false negative results with esophageal manometry .Contrast X-rays and endoscopy are usually performed first if reflux is suspected and treatment is prescribed. Only if treatment fails to relieve the symptoms manometry and pH monitoring or barium swallow can help in diagnosing the cause. Consult your gastroenterologist. I hope it helps.
Best luck and regards!

[StefaniR80]

If you get food stuck, it could be Achalasia. I have it. They can only diagnosis it by manometry but a barium swallow should show something.