An abnormal narrowing of a body passage, tube, or opening due to scar tissue formation, inflammation, or other pathological processes. Strictures can obstruct the normal flow of fluids or materials through affected structures.
From Latin 'strictura' meaning 'a binding tight' or 'compression,' derived from 'stringere' (to bind or draw tight). The medical term emerged in the 17th century, initially used to describe urethral narrowing.
Esophageal strictures from acid reflux can make swallowing so difficult that patients can only manage liquids - imagine trying to drink through a coffee stirrer straw. Balloon dilation can stretch these narrowed areas back open, like inflating a balloon inside a kinked garden hose.
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