What is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is the general term for inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that delivers food from your mouth to your stomach. Esophagitis can have several underlying issues such as a build-up of the eosinophil white blood cells (Eosinophilic Esophagitis), acid build-up in your esophagus, infection, some medications, or allergies.
To receive reliable treatment for this condition, contact GI Alliance practice to connect with a gastrointestinal specialist that can provide you with the care required so that you can find relief.
What are the causes of esophagitis?
The common causes of esophagitis can include the following:
- Acid reflux
- Infections
- Oral medications
- Allergies
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
To learn more about the various causes of esophagitis and how the gastrointestinal physicians at GI Alliance can help you get the treatment necessary, connect with their practice and schedule an appointment when it is most convenient for you.
What are the common symptoms of esophagitis?
The most common symptoms or signs of esophagitis in adults include:
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Food impaction – food getting stuck in the esophagus
- Difficulty and pain in swallowing
- Acid regurgitation
Young children can also experience esophagitis. The common signs in young children could include:
- Difficulty feeding/eating
- Failure to thrive – not growing at a normal rate, malnutrition, etc.
You should schedule an appointment with your gastroenterologist at GI Alliance if symptoms persist past a few days, over-the-counter heartburn medications are not working, eating is difficult due to pain, or if your symptoms are accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, aching, and headache.
What are the treatments for esophagitis?
Treatment for esophagitis focuses on lessening the symptoms of esophagitis in the patient. The treatment strategy varies depending on the cause of the condition. Some of those treatments may include:
- Medications that reduce acid production (antacids)
- H-2 receptor blockers (prescription strength acid reflux medications)
- Surgery – to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux
- Steroids
- Proton Pump Inhibitors
- Diet control
- Change medications (if caused by oral medications)
- Antivirals
- Antibiotics
- Dilation
A primary focus of treatment and prevention of esophagitis is to diminish acid reflux. This can be accomplished by avoiding foods such as alcohol, caffeine, mint-flavored foods, and other foods that trigger your acid reflux. Making the following lifestyle changes can also assist:
- Good pill-taking habits – such as eating before taking your medication, drinking plenty of water with it, and avoiding lying down after taking pills
- Lose weight
- Quit smoking / don’t start smoking
- Avoid lying down after eating
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Esophagitis FAQs
Can esophagitis lead to complications if left untreated?
If not properly treated, esophagitis can lead to complications such as scarring and narrowing of the esophagus (strictures), an increased risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus (which can increase the risk of esophageal cancer), and chronic pain or discomfort.
Can I prevent esophagitis?
Prevention of esophagitis primarily involves managing risk factors. This includes controlling acid reflux by losing weight, eating smaller meals, avoiding food before bedtime, and eliminating foods that trigger symptoms. For those with allergic forms, avoiding specific allergens is crucial. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider can also help manage and prevent complications from esophagitis.
What dietary changes can help manage esophagitis?
Managing esophagitis often involves dietary adjustments to avoid aggravating the esophagus. Foods to avoid typically include spicy foods, acidic fruits and juices, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, and fatty or fried foods. It’s also beneficial to eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals and to avoid eating close to bedtime. Incorporating soothing foods like oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt can help minimize symptoms.