Esophagitis in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus, which is the part of the body that passes food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. It could be caused by a number of preexisting conditions like a type of white blood cells called eosinophils, acid buildup in the esophagus, infection, several medications, or allergies.
To get specialized care for this condition, contact a Digestive Health Center near you to request a consultation with a GI provider. Our providers render care for esophagitis in Thibodaux, LA, and can make sure you receive the treatment you need to alleviate your symptoms.
What causes esophagitis?
A variety of conditions and factors could cause esophagitis. The most common include:
- Oral medicaments (such as anti-inflammatories and aspirin)
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
- Frequent vomiting
- Infections
- Allergies
- Acid regurgitation
What are the most common symptoms of esophagitis?
The symptoms of esophagitis present differently in children than they do in adults. The most common symptoms of esophagitis in adults include:
- Pain in the chest
- Heartburn
- Acid reflux
- Food becoming stuck in the esophagus
- Trouble or pain when swallowing
The common indicators of this condition in young children include:
- Failure to thrive (not growing at a normal pace, malnutrition, etc.)
- Difficulty feeding/eating
It may be time to be assessed at a Digestive Health Center location if your symptoms last more than a few days, over-the-counter antacid medications fail to work, you find it painful to eat, or if your symptoms occur in combination with flu-like symptoms such as fever, a headache, and body aches.
What are the treatments for esophagitis?
Our providers aim to lessen or alleviate the symptoms of esophagitis. Treatment plans will differ depending on the cause of the condition. Several treatment options can include:
- Medications that reduce acid production (antacids)
- Antivirals
- Switching medications (if caused by oral medications)
- Surgery (to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux)
- Antibiotics
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Steroids
- H-2 receptor blockers (prescription-strength acid reflux medications)
- Esophageal dilation (to widen the esophagus)
- Controlling the diet
The best way to prevent and treat esophagitis is to diminish acid regurgitation. This can be done by avoiding the ingestion of alcohol, mint-flavored foods, and any other foods that cause acid regurgitation. Incorporating the following lifestyle changes into your life could also be beneficial:
- Avoid lying down following a meal or snack
- Ideal pill-taking protocols (including eating prior to taking your medication, consuming plenty of water with it, and avoiding lying down after taking pills)
- Quit tobacco use
- Lose weight
Esophagitis FAQs
What potential complications can arise from untreated esophagitis?
Leaving esophagitis untreated can lead to a number of severe complications, including the formation of strictures, which are scars that narrow the esophagus, making swallowing difficult. There's also an elevated risk of developing Barrett's esophagus, a condition that can progress to esophageal cancer. Additionally, chronic pain and discomfort are common if the inflammation remains unaddressed.
Is it possible to prevent esophagitis?
To prevent esophagitis, it is important to address and manage its risk factors effectively. This involves measures such as controlling acid reflux through weight management, eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding eating before bedtime, and eliminating foods that trigger symptoms. For those affected by allergic esophagitis, avoiding identified allergens is key. Regular consultations with a healthcare provider are crucial for monitoring and preventing esophagitis and its complications.
What are the dietary modifications that can assist in managing esophagitis?
Dietary changes are central to managing esophagitis and preventing further irritation of the esophagus. Avoiding spicy and acidic foods, caffeinated drinks, chocolate, and high-fat or fried foods is recommended. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and refraining from eating before bedtime can also be beneficial. Integrating soothing foods such as oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt into your diet can help alleviate the symptoms of esophagitis.
Seek treatment for esophagitis
If you or a loved one needs treatment for esophagitis in Thibodaux, LA, our team is ready to assist. We are a skilled group of GI providers who take the time to understand your health concerns so we can offer a treatment plan that addresses all of your symptoms. To take the first step in taking back your health, request a consultation at a Digestive Health Center near you to get started.
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