Esophagitis (Esophageal Inflammation)
Description
Inflammation of the lining of the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. This inflammation may be due infections, irritation from acid reflux, or other irritants. The most common cause is the back up of acidic fluid from the stomach - a syndrome call GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Symptoms
Pain with swallowing, reflux symptoms, chest pain, nausea, sore throat, hoarseness.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Direct visualization with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) if initial treatment fails may be done.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Lipase
- Troponin
- X-Ray
- EKG
Treatment
There are multiple causes of espohagitis including acid reflux, herpes infection, fungal infections, vomiting, and exposure to radiation. Treatment of the underlying cause is essential for recovery and medications used include: proton pump inhibitors (omperazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix), H2 Blockers (cimetidine/Tagamet, ranitidine/Zantac), anti-inflammatory medications, anti-nausea medications, and antifungal medications.
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