Erosive Esophagitis
What is Erosive Esophagitis?
Erosive esophagitis is a condition that occurs when the lining of the esophagus is damaged by stomach acid. It is usually caused by reflux, or backing up of stomach acid into the esophagus. It can cause several symptoms and can even lead to serious complications if it is left untreated.
Causes
Erosive esophagitis is usually caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This is when stomach acid refluxes up into the esophagus and causes damage to the lining. Other causes of erosive esophagitis may include certain medications, certain foods, chronic vomiting, and alcohol abuse.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of erosive esophagitis include:
- Pain in the chest or throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Regurgitation
Diagnosis
Erosive esophagitis is usually diagnosed through a combination of tests. These tests may include an endoscopy, a barium swallow or upper GI series, and/or an upper GI endoscopy. During these tests, the doctor can examine the lining of the esophagus to look for signs of inflammation or damage.
Treatment
Treatment for erosive esophagitis depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In most cases, medications are the first line of treatment. These may include proton-pump inhibitors or histamine-2 receptor antagonists. Diet and lifestyle changes may also be recommended to help reduce acid reflux and reduce symptoms.
Complications
Erosive esophagitis can cause several serious complications if left untreated. These complications may include narrowing of the esophagus, bleeding, ulcers, or even Barrett's esophagus. It is important to seek prompt treatment if you think you may have erosive esophagitis.