Esophagitis

What is Esophagitis?

Esophagitis is inflammation or swelling of the esophagus-the muscular tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. When the lining becomes irritated, it can cause discomfort and make swallowing difficult.

Common Symptoms

You may experience:

• Burning sensation in the chest
• Pain or discomfort after eating
• Difficulty or pain when swallowing
• Feeling of food sticking in the throat
• Sour or acidic taste in the mouth
• Hoarseness or throat pain
• Occasional vomiting

Causes

Esophagitis can result from several factors:

• Acid reflux (GERD) or chronic heartburn
• Infections (e.g., yeast or herpes) in people with weakened immunity
• Allergic reactions (eosinophilic esophagitis)
• Certain medications that irritate the esophageal lining
• Esophageal strictures (narrowing of the esophagus)
• Muscle disorders affecting esophageal movement (dysmotility)

Treatment Options for Esophagitis in Cypress

Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical care:

• Lifestyle changes: Eat smaller, more frequent meals; avoid spicy, fatty or acidic foods; and elevate the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux.
• Antacids: Over-the-counter antacids provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid.
• H2 blockers: Medications such as ranitidine or famotidine decrease acid production and relieve symptoms.
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Drugs like omeprazole or esomeprazole offer potent acid suppression and promote healing of the esophageal lining.
• Endoscopy and dilation: Diagnostic endoscopy to assess damage and dilation procedures to widen any strictures or narrowed areas.
• Allergy management: Dietary elimination, topical steroids, or other allergy treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis.
• Infection control: Targeted antibiotics or antifungal medications when esophagitis is caused by bacterial or fungal infections.
• Follow-up monitoring: Regular endoscopic evaluation or pH testing to ensure healing, adjust therapy, and prevent complications.