Is Esophageal Dilatation Painful? Dr. Indraneel Saha Addresses Patient Concerns

KOLKATA, India - Oct. 25, 2025 - PRLog -- For patients diagnosed with esophageal strictures or narrowing of the esophagus, the most effective solution is esophageal dilatation. It is a procedure that involves widening the constricted part of the esophagus to give relief to the patients.

While the method significantly improves the symptoms of strictures, the idea of a long, flexible tube passing down the food pipe triggers anxiety among patients, more specifically related to the pain.

Dr. Indraneel Saha, a leading gastroenterologist, addresses this common concern and sheds light on what individuals can expect from the procedure.

"The primary reason why patients refrain from undergoing esophageal dilatation is the fear of pain. They have a notion that the procedure is extremely uncomfortable and causes a lot of discomfort, " says Dr. Saha.

But the truth is totally different. In the majority of individuals, esophageal dilatation is well-tolerated. In fact, the whole examination is minimally invasive in nature and is performed under anesthesia.

As a result, patients do not experience any pain during the procedure. Any discomfort, such as a sore throat, is normal and usually resolves within a day or two.

"We ensure that patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure. The goal of esophageal dilatation is to provide relief from symptoms, not to cause more." Dr. Indraneel Saha further adds.

Dr. Saha believes that patient education and an accurate esophageal dilatation technique are the key to outstanding outcomes after the procedure. He advises every individual suffering from swallowing difficulty to consult a leading gastroenterologist for a precise diagnosis.

It is to be remembered that patients might require multiple sessions of esophageal dilation depending on the cause and extent of the strictures. Always make sure to consult an experienced surgeon to ensure minimal complications and risks.

Following the procedure, Dr. Saha suggests patients follow the post-operative care guidelines for a smooth recovery. Here are some recommendations.

1. Dietary precautions: Start with a soft or liquid diet, especially for the first few days. After the doctor's advice, gradually move to solid foods.
2. Monitor unusual symptoms: Seek medical care immediately if you experience chest pain, persistant fever, shortness of breath and vomitting.
3. Attend the follow-up appointments: Don't forget to attend the regular follow-ups to help monitor progress and prevent recurrence.

Esophageal dilatation is a necessary procedure for treating strictures and improving swallowing function. Any mild discomfort experienced post-procedure is temporary and manageable, marking a successful step toward better health.

About Dr. Indraneel Saha

Dr. Indraneel Saha is a reputable gastroenterologist known for his expertise in performing esophageal dilatation. He has over 32 years of experience in curing patients from life-threatening issues.

Know more: https://www.drindraneelsaha.in/specialization/esophageal-...