Exact cause of diffuse esophageal spasm is unknown. However, may be caused by consequence of various diseases and secondary to conditions like compression of nerves within esophageal wall, inflammation of the esophagus, strictures, GERD, and psychological conditions like anxiety or depression.

The exact cause of esophageal spasms remains unknown. However, it may be a consequence of various diseases and arise secondary to these conditions. Esophageal spasms may be more likely to occur with one or more of the following conditions:^[1]

• Compression of the nerves within the esophageal wall by solid masses or enlarged blood vessels.
• Esophagitis which is an inflammation of the esophagus. It is commonly caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and infections.
• Sandifer syndrome which is closely associated with GERD.
• Crohn’s disease of the esophagus marked by inflammation and ulceration of the esophageal wall.
• Dermatomyositis, multiple sclerosis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
• Esophageal strictures or obstructions.
• Depression, anxiety and psychological stress.
• Eating disorders involving purging.