ABSTRACT – Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus which damages the muscular tube that passes the food from...
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus which damages the muscular tube that passes the food from mouth to stomach. There can be several types of esophagitis depending upon its occurrence. The inflammation can be due to infection or irritation in the esophagus.
Types:
Reflux Esophagitis
Infectious Esophagitis
Barrett’s Esophagus
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Behcet’s Syndrome
CAUSES –
Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) also called as Esophageal Sphincter, wherein the backflow of acid into the esophagus from stomach becomes frequent which causes inflammation and irritation.
Some allergies such as Eosinophilic Esophagitis in response to acid reflux
Some oral medications or drugs can damage the tissues if remain in the lining of esophagus after consumption
Infections can occur due to bacteria, fungi or virus affecting esophageal tissues
Weakened immune system
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS –
Pain and difficulty while swallowing
Chest pain while eating
Heartburn
Food trapping in the esophagus
Acid regurgitation
Abdominal pain
Lack of appetite
Nausea, vomiting
Mouth sores
Cough
DIAGNOSIS –
Bium X-ray
Endoscopy
Laboratory tests
TREATMENT –
OTC (Over the counter) medications includes Antacids which minimizes acid production
Surgery
Proton pump inhibitors
Steroids
Elimination of culprit foods
PREVENTIONS
Avoid consumption of caustic substances like household cleaners, garden chemicals.
Intake of oral medications should be with good amount of water in straight position.
RISK FACTORS –
Eating right before going to sleep
Alcohol, caffeine, chocolate and mint-flavored food
Heavy and fatty meals
Smoking
Obesity
EPIDEMIOLOGY –
Estimation shows that people of all ages can be affected by Esophagitis but it has been commonly observed in children and adults with 30-40 years of age.
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