Esophageal Stenosis Lawyer & Lawsuit

Esophageal stenosis is a congenital birth defect characterized by the narrowing of the lumen of the esophagus that inhibits the process of transporting fluids and foods from the mouth to the stomach. When the esophagus gets damaged, scar tissue builds up and impedes this process. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, tests and diagnosis for esophageal stenosis.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with esophageal stenosis after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.

Esophageal Stenosis Signs & Symptoms

Esophageal stenosis symptoms may include the following:

• Difficulty in swallowing
• Food “gets stuck” in the esophagus
• Uncomfortable swallowing
• Acid reflux
• Choking, coughing, or shortness of breath
• Vomiting blood
• Weight loss

Esophageal Stenosis Causes

For the most part, doctors agree that scar tissue buildup in the esophagus may lead to esophageal stenosis. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the birth defect risks caused by using antidepressants during pregnancy. Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of esophageal stenosis in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy. The following is a list of antidepressant medications that have been linked to this type of birth defect:

• Paroxetine
• Zoloft (Sertraline)
• Celexa (Citalopram)
• Prozac (Fluoxetine)
• Lexapro (Escitalopram)
• Fluvoxamine
• Symbyax (fluoxetine and olanzapine)
• Bupropion
• Effexor (Venlafaxine)

Esophageal Stenosis Risk Factors

Esophageal stenosis risk factors include the following:

• Antidepressants have been linked to an increased risk of esophageal stenosis in children born to mothers who took them during pregnancy
• Severe infections of the esophagus (esophagitis)
• Swallowing caustic substances
• Complications of medical treatments
• Cancer of the esophagus

Esophageal Stenosis Tests & Diagnosis

To diagnose esophageal stenosis, a healthcare provider may order the following tests:

• Endoscopy: A procedure in which a narrow tube is inserted into the esophagus to check for scarring or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
• Biopsy: Takes a sample of tissue to check for symptoms.
• Cine-esophagram: An X-ray study in which the person swallows a radio-opaque liquid to help determine the location and length of the defect.

Do I have an Esophageal Stenosis Lawsuit?

The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in esophageal stenosis lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.

Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with esophageal stenosis after taking an antidepressant, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.