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Esophagitis

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Rishi Chadha specializes in diagnosing and treating esophagitis-an inflammation of the esophagus that can cause pain, heartburn, and swallowing difficulties. Combining diagnostics with targeted therapies, he guides patients toward relief through care and proven treatments.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Esophagitis?

  • Inflammation or swelling of the esophagus lining
  • Often causes burning or pain when you swallow
  • Can lead to scarring if not treated
  • Occurs in the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach

Common Symptoms

  • Heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest
  • Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
  • Feeling like food is stuck in your throat (dysphagia)
  • Chest pain not related to your heart
  • Nausea or vomiting

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) - stomach acid backing up
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis - allergic reaction in the esophagus
  • Infections such as candida, herpes, or CMV
  • Certain medications that irritate the lining
  • Radiation therapy or chemical injury

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Esophagitis?

Dr. Rishi uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms, diet and medical history, then examines your chest and abdomen for tenderness.

Upper Endoscopy

A thin, flexible scope is inserted to directly visualize the esophageal lining and identify inflammation or damage.

Biopsy and Pathology

During endoscopy, small tissue samples are taken to check for eosinophils, infectious agents or other cellular changes.

Esophageal pH Monitoring

A 24-hour pH probe measures acid exposure in your esophagus to confirm reflux-related injury.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for esophagitis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat small, frequent meals to reduce esophageal irritation
  • Remain upright for at least 2 hours after eating
  • Avoid known trigger foods: spicy, fatty, citrus, tomato, chocolate, caffeine, mint, and alcohol
  • Maintain a healthy weight and quit smoking to ease symptoms
  • Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing or meditation

2. Medications

  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to block acid production and promote healing
  • H2 Blockers for mild to moderate reflux control
  • Topical or swallowed steroid sprays/liquids to reduce allergic inflammation
  • Antacids for rapid, short-term relief of heartburn

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic dilation to widen strictures or narrowed segments
  • Radiofrequency ablation for treatment of thickened or scarred tissue
  • Cryotherapy to freeze and remove damaged esophageal lining when indicated
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for esophagitis?

K20.x for general types. K20.0 for eosinophilic esophagitis.

How do you diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis?

With endoscopy and a biopsy to check cell levels.

Can diet alone fix reflux?

It helps, but most people still need medication.

What foods should I avoid?

Avoid spicy, greasy, acidic, and caffeinated items.

How long does healing take?

Mild cases: a few weeks. Severe cases: 1 to 3 months.

Are natural options safe?

Some try aloe vera or licorice root. Always ask Dr. Chadha first.

What is reflux esophagitis?

It means acid reflux is harming the esophagus lining.

Will eosinophilic esophagitis go away?

It's long-term but can be controlled with the right care.

How often do I need checkups?

Most need a repeat endoscopy in 8-12 weeks.

Can children have esophagitis too?

Yes. Dr. Chadha treats kids and adults.

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