Esophagitis
Esophagitis is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus, the tube that
carries food from the throat to the stomach. If left untreated, this condition
can become very uncomfortable, causing problems with swallowing,
ulcers and
scarring of the esophagus. In rare instances, a condition known as "Barrett's
esophagus" may develop, which is a risk factor for
cancer of the esophagus.
What Causes Esophagitis?
Esophagitis is caused by an infection or irritation in the esophagus. An
infection can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or diseases that weaken the
immune system. Infections that cause esophagitis include:
- Candida. This is a yeast infection of the esophagus caused by the
same fungus that causes
vaginal yeast infections. The infection develops in the
esophagus when the body's immune system is weak (such as in people with diabetes
or HIV). It is usually very treatable with antifungal drugs.
- Herpes. Like Candida, this viral infection can develop in the
esophagus when the body's immune system is weak. It is treatable with antiviral
drugs.
Irritation causing esophagitis may be caused by any of the following:
-
GERD
- Vomiting
- Surgery
- Medications such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories
- Taking a large pill with too little water or just before bedtime
- Swallowing a toxic substance
- Hernias
- Radiation injury (after receiving radiation for cancer treatment)
What Are the Symptoms of Esophagitis?
Symptoms of esophagitis include:
- Difficult and/or painful swallowing
-
Heartburn
- Mouth sores
- A feeling of something of being stuck in the throat
- Nausea
- Vomiting
If you have any of these symptoms, you should contact your health care provider as soon as possible.
How Is Esophagitis Diagnosed?
Once your doctor has performed a thorough physical examination and reviewed
your medical history, there are several tests that can be used to diagnose
esophagitis. These include:
- Upper endoscopy . A test in which a long, flexible lighted tube,
called an endoscope, is used to look at the esophagus.
- Biopsy. During this test, a small sample of the esophageal tissue is
removed and then sent to a laboratory to be examined under a microscope.
- Upper GI series (or barium swallow). During this procedure, x-rays
are taken of the esophagus after drinking a barium solution. Barium coats the
lining of the esophagus and shows up white on an x-ray. This characteristic
enables doctors to view certain abnormalities of the esophagus.
Next: How Is Esophagitis Treated? »
- Proton-Pump Inhibitors - Read about proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) prescribed for GERD, peptic ulcers, and h pylori. Examples of PPIs include Prilosec, Prevacid, Aciphex, Protonix, Nexium, and Zegarid.
- Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD) - Learn about the endoscopy procedure which examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to detect gastrointestinal and digestive disorders on MedicineNet.com
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
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