What is Esophagitis?

The esophagus is a muscular tube that carries food to the stomach after it has been swallowed. When the esophagus gets irritated and inflamed, the condition is referred to as Esophagitis. If left untreated, the condition may become extremely uncomfortable, and problems with swallowing, ulcers and scarring may result. Sometimes a condition known as Barrett's esophagus can develop, which can lead to esophageal cancer.

Causes of esophagitis

Esophagitis is often caused by the backflow of stomach acid; this condition is known as gastroesophogeal reflux. The most common causes of esophagitis are:

Alcohol consumption

Cigarette smoking

Surgery on the chest

Taking medications without enough water (some medications will irritate the esophagus if not swallowed with enough water)

Vomiting

Symptoms of esophagitis

The symptoms of esophagitis may manifest due to chronic irritation and infections. The symptoms of esophagitis include:

Difficult or painful swallowing

Heartburn

Hoarseness

Sore throat

Mouth sores

Feeling like food is stuck in the throat

Nausea

Vomiting

Diagnosis of esophagitis

A diagnosis of esophagitis can be done once the doctor has completed a comprehensive physical examination and analyzed the medical history. Several tests may be used to aid in the diagnosis. The tests include:

Upper endoscopy - In this test a long, flexible, lighted tube is inserted into the mouth and advanced into the esophagus. The doctor is able to visualize and take pictures of the inside of the esophagus with the use of an endoscope.

Biopsy - In this test, a small amount of tissue from the esophagus is collected and sent to a lab for examination under a microscope.

Upper GI series (Barium swallow) - In this procedure, X-rays of the esophagus are taken after the patient drinks liquid barium. Barium coats the lining of the esophagus and displays a white opaque image on the X-ray. Because barium is a radio-opaque contrast medium, doctors are able to see any abnormalities that may be present in the esophagus.

Treatment for esophagitis

Treatment for esophagitis depends on the cause. Possible treatment options for esophagitis include:

Medications which interfere with acid production (heartburn drugs)

Antibiotics, antiviral and antifungal medications

Pain medications

Corticosteroid medications reduce inflammation

Intravenous nutrition allows the esophagus to rest and heal

Endoscopy for removing any pill fragments that may be stuck in the esophagus

Surgery may be indicated to remove the damaged part of the esophagus

Conclusion

There are things you should remember if you are being treated for esophagitis; you can make changes in your lifestyle to reduce the pain and discomfort associated with esophagitis. Avoid spicy foods such as those with chili powder, pepper, nutmeg and curry. Avoid crackers, nuts, raw vegetables and other hard foods while your esophagus is irritated. Avoid acidic foods and beverages such as oranges, tomatoes, grapefruits and their juices. As an alternative, try fruit drinks that are not all juice. Buy the kinds of fruit drinks that contain added Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to heal. Add soft foods such as cooked cereals, applesauce, custards, puddings and mashed potatoes to your diet. Chew your food thoroughly and take small bites. If swallowing becomes increasingly difficult, try to tilt your head upwards so that the food flows to the back of the throat prior to swallowing. Drink liquids with a straw, because this makes swallowing easier. Finally, avoid alcohol and tobacco, because these substances will make your symptoms worse.

Sources:

Medline Plus

Medicine Net