Esophagitis

Esophagitis refers to the inflammation of the esophagus, which is the tube responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach. This condition can arise from various causes, including the accumulation of eosinophil white blood cells (known as Eosinophilic Esophagitis), excessive acid in the esophagus, infections, certain medications, or allergies.

If you are seeking effective treatment for esophagitis, it is advisable to consult a specialist who can provide the necessary care to alleviate your symptoms and provide relief.

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 we can help you get the treatment necessary, contact any of our specialists near you and schedule an appointment.

In adults, the most frequently observed symptoms of esophagitis are:

– Heartburn
– Chest pain
– Food becoming lodged in the esophagus (food impaction)
– Swallowing difficulties and pain
– Acid regurgitation

Esophagitis can also affect young children, and common signs in this age group may include:

– Difficulty with feeding or eating
– Failure to thrive, characterised by inadequate growth and malnutrition

If you experience persistent symptoms beyond a few days, find that over-the-counter heartburn medications are ineffective, struggle to eat due to pain, or have accompanying flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and headache, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist at The Gut Clinic UK for further evaluation and appropriate management.

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