How is cricopharyngeal spasm treated?

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How is cricopharyngeal spasm treated?

Management depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Cricopharyngeal spasm treatments include:

  • Botox injections: This treatment temporarily weakens the affected muscles, helping them relax.
  • Muscle relaxants: Valium or other types of prescription muscle relaxants can help calm stress that triggers cricopharyngeal spasm.
  • Medications for reflux and GERD: If cricopharyngeal spasm is related to acid reflux, GERD or similar conditions, your healthcare provider may prescribe anti-reflux medications.
  • Physical therapy: Exercises for cricopharyngeal spasm can help ease your symptoms. A physical therapist can show you how to relax the affected muscles.
  • Counseling: If stress is a contributing factor, counseling can help. Managing your anxiety can reduce — and in some cases eliminate — cricopharyngeal spasm symptoms.

In very rare instances, surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, your surgeon makes cuts in the cricopharyngeal muscle so it doesn’t contract too much.

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