Megaesophagus is a condition in which a generalized enlargement of the esophagus occurs, making it unable to push food into the stomach. Seen primarily in dogs, this condition might be inherited, or seen secondary to esophageal obstructions or neuromuscular diseases such as myasthenia gravis.
Diagnosis of megaesophagus is made by taking radiographs of the esophagus or actually visualizing the enlargement with an endoscope inserted into the esophagus via the mouth. Those dogs diagnosed with this disorder must be fed with their front end elevated on a chair or table to encourage gravity flow of food and water into the stomach. Feeding liquid or semisolid food will also help facilitate this passage into the stomach. Depending on the cause, some individuals do improve with time. In select cases, surgery might be performed to help improve esophageal function.
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