What is esophagitis?

Esophagitis is the inflammation and swelling of the lining of the esophagus.  It is most often caused by acid-containing stomach contents refluxing back up into the esophagus, known as acid reflux.  The most significant cause of acid reflux is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
If left untreated, this condition can become very uncomfortable, causing problems with swallowing, ulcers, and scarring of the esophagus. 

Causes of 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:

• Candidia:  A yeast infection of the esophagus that is caused by the same fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections.  The infection develops in the esophagus when the body’s immune system is weak.  Candidia is commonly treated with antifungal drugs.
• Herpes:  Similar to Candidia, the Herpes virus develops when the body’s immune system is weak.  Herpes is also typically treated with antiviral drugs.

Irritation of the esophagus may lead to esophagitis.  Some common causes of irritation include:

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Vomiting
• Surgery
• Medications such as aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications
• Taking a large pill with too little water or just before bedtime
• Hernias
• Swallowing a toxic substance
• Radiation injury

Symptoms of esophagitis:

Common symptoms of esophagitis include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Heartburn
• Mouth sores
• Burning sensation in the esophagus
• Oral lesions (Herpes)
• A feeling of something being stuck in the throat
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Acid reflux (heartburn)

 How is esophagitis diagnosed?

There are several tests that can be performed in order to diagnose esophagitis.  These include:

• Upper endoscopy:  A test in which an endoscope is used to look at the esophagus
• Tissue biopsy:  During this test, a small sample of tissue is removed and send to the laboratory to be examined under a microscope
• X-rays:  During this procedure, x-rays are taken of the esophagus after the patient consumes a barium solution

Treatment options:

Treatments for esophagitis greatly depend on the cause of the esophagitis.  Possible treatment methods include:

• Medications that block acid production
• Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals, which will treat the infection
• Pain medications that can be swallowed or gargled
• Corticosteroid medication to reduce inflammation
• Endoscopy to remove lodged items from the esophagus
• Surgery to remove damaged parts of the esophagus

Complications of esophagitis:

If esophagitis is left untreated, it can cause:

• Severe discomfort
• Malnutrition or dehydration
• Scarring of the esophagus, which can lead to esophageal strictures
• In rare cases, Barrett’s esophagus, which can lead to esophageal cancer

Related information:

• What is the esophagus?
• American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) 
• American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) 
• More patient resources

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This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.