Esophagitis

Esophagitis is an inflammation of the lining of the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.

What is going on in the body?

The lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed because of an infection or something that has irritated the lining. Esophagitis is called acute when it occurs suddenly. It is called chronic when it lasts for a long time.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

Causes of esophagitis include:

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Symptoms of esophagitis include:

How is the disease diagnosed?

After a complete history and physical, any of these tests may be done:

Other tests may be done, depending on the symptoms.

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol intake may decrease the risk of esophagitis. Other ways to decrease the risk include:

Esophagitis caused by toxic substances can be avoided by:

Prevention of esophagitis is not always possible.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

If the cause of the esophagitis is an infection, and the infection is treated, the inflammation may improve. If a toxic chemical, such as lye, bleach, or gasoline is ingested, the esophagus can perforate, or rupture. This esophageal perforation can be fatal.

Conditions such as GERD can irritate and narrow the esophagus. Chronic GERD can result in Barrett's esophagus. In Barrett's esophagus, the lining of the esophagus is so badly damaged that a new lining is formed. The changes in the cells lining the esophagus pose an increased risk for esophageal cancer.

What are the risks to others?

Esophagitis itself is not contagious and poses no risk to others. If the cause is an infection, such as herpes simplex, the infection may be contagious.

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment of esophagitis is directed at the cause. Treatment may include:

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Medications used to treat infections may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and headache. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

For mild, intermittent symptoms, treatment with antacids, diet changes, and activity recommendations may control symptoms. Recovery from surgery may be a few days to several weeks depending on the procedure used.

How is the disease monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider. Careful attention to symptoms that recur is important so that early treatment can begin.

Author:David J. Craner, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:01/31/01
Reviewer:Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Date Reviewed:07/05/01

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