What is it
Reflux esophagitis is a complication of gastroesophageal reflux, a disorder due to the abnormal ascent of gastric acids from the stomach into the esophagus, the consequences of which are irritation and inflammation of the esophageal walls.
Normally the esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle tissue located at the bottom of the esophagus, prevents the stomach contents from rising. If the passage is not tightly closed, acids can flow back upwards and irritate the esophageal wall.
Causes
Reflux may be due to incomplete closure of the esophageal sphincter. In addition, the passage of acid to the esophagus is easier in case of hiatal hernia and if the stomach takes too long to empty.
Other factors that favor reflux and the onset of esophagitis are:
- excessive alcohol use
- cigarette smoke
- medications (certain painkillers, osteoporosis medications, calcium channel blockers, theophylline, nitrates and antihistamines)
- obesity
- fatty, fried, acidic or spicy foods (chocolate, garlic, oil, mint flavors)
- incorrect eating habits (large meals, bad chewing, bedtime just after eating).
In addition, pregnancy, diabetes and rapid weight gain predispose to this disorder. Finally, stress can aggravate symptoms.
Symptoms
Burning in the chest, behind the breastbone, and a sour taste in the mouth are considered typical symptoms. The burning worsens after meals and if you lie down immediately after eating.
Chest pains, hoarseness, chronic cough and shortness of breath are, however, considered atypical manifestations.
Complications
An inadequately treated reflux esophagitis can degenerate into an ulcer of the esophagus, with more or less severe bleeding that, if neglected, can lead to anemia.
It can also lead to laryngopharyngeal reflux, narrowing of the esophagus and difficulty swallowing, breathing problems.
Modifications of the cells lining the esophagus can degenerate into the so-called Barrett’s esophagus. Finally, in rare cases, it is possible to develop cancer of the esophagus.
Treatment
To relieve symptoms and avoid more serious complications, it is generally enough to change your eating habits.
Let’s see together some tips to counteract the symptoms of reflux esophagitis:
| What to do | What to avoid |
|---|---|
| Dine at least three hours before bedtime | Too large meals |
| Use a pillow high enough to prevent gastric contents from rising | Spicy fatty, acidic, fried or spicy foods |
| Maintain correct posture | Alcohol, caffeine, mint |
| Lie down immediately after eating |
Among the most used drugs are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), also available in a saleable formulation without a prescription, which block acid secretion, such as H2-antagonists, antacids and foams, which prevent food from rising into the esophagus, sucralfate, which neutralizes pepsin activity and prokinetics, which accelerate gastric emptying.
Only if it is not possible to solve the disorder with these remedies is it necessary to intervene surgically. The most used intervention is fundoplication, which allows to narrow the esophageal sphincter.
When to consult your doctor
If the symptoms of reflux esophagitis are very strong or frequent, interfere with sleep, work or other activities or are not relieved by changing habits, it is advisable to contact your doctor, who can recommend a gastroenterological visit.
The specialist will be able to perform specific analyzes such as X-rays of the esophagus, stomach and upper intestine, an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, an esophageal manometry or a 24-hour esophageal pHmetry, which allows you to monitor esophageal reflux throughout the day.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
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