Updated: 9/21/23
When it comes to self-care, we often overlook our esophagus. This muscular tube is responsible for carrying food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Unfortunately, many factors can cause damage and inflammation to the esophagus, resulting in esophagitis. In this blog, we will discuss the causes of esophagitis and how to protect your esophagus from further harm.
What is Esophagitis?
Esophagitis is a medical condition that involves the inflammation of the esophageal lining. The esophagus refers to the tube that is responsible for transporting food from the throat down to the stomach. The inflammation can result in damage to the tissues of the esophagus. This condition, which can be quite mild at first, can rapidly become particularly uncomfortable, resulting in problems like painful swallowing, chest pain, esophageal scarring and ulcers. In some cases, it can lead to severe reflux and a complication known as Barrett’s esophagus. The development of this can be a major risk factor for esophageal cancer.
Esophagitis Types
Reflux Esophagitis
Reflux esophagitis usually occurs due to the presence of a condition known as gastroesophageal disease, or GERD. This disease occurs as a result of acids found in the stomach regularly getting to the esophagus.
GERD is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when stomach acids flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. If left untreated, GERD can lead to esophageal ulcers, strictures, and even esophageal cancer.
To prevent GERD, avoid triggers such as spicy and fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol. Maintain a healthy weight, elevate your head in bed, and avoid eating at least two hours before bedtime. If you suspect you have GERD, see your doctor for assessment and treatment.
Infectious Esophagitis
This condition is mainly caused by fungi, virus, bacteria or other parasites. In rare cases, esophagitis can be caused by an infection, such as candida (a type of yeast) or herpes simplex virus. Infectious esophagitis is most commonly present in people suffering from cancer, diabetes and HIV/AIDS. Due to the fact these conditions weaken the immune system, these patients are at significantly higher risk than the general population. Symptoms of infectious esophagitis may include painful swallowing, ulcers, fever, and weight loss.
Treatment for infectious esophagitis typically involves antifungal or antiviral medication, as well as treating the underlying condition that caused the weakened immune system.
Drug-Induced Esophagitis
This type of esophagitis is mainly due to ingesting particular medications without water to wash it down. The medications then get stuck in the esophagus and stay there for too long. Some medications that can lead to this include doxycycline, tetracycline and clindamycin.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Another type of esophagitis is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), which is caused by an allergic reaction to certain foods, medications, or environmental allergens. EoE occurs when the immune system responds to these triggers by releasing eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) that cause inflammation in the esophagus. EoE can cause difficulty swallowing, food impaction, chest pain, and other symptoms.
To diagnose EoE, your doctor may perform an upper endoscopy with biopsy and allergy testing. Treatment options for EoE may include eliminating trigger foods from the diet, taking medication to reduce inflammation or suppress the immune system, and/or undergoing a procedure to dilate the esophagus.
Esophagitis Symptoms
A large number of esophagitis symptoms are caused by various other conditions that affect the activities of the digestive system. It is easy to mistake the symptoms for something temporary.
If symptoms persist longer than expected or at the same time as flu-like symptoms, you should consider a medical consultation.
Difficulty Swallowing
This condition is termed dysphagia. Those suffering from esophagitis may experience this either regularly or sporadically.
Usually, the frequency of occurrence is dependent on how severe the reflux is and the type of treatment. Different people experience difficulties in swallowing in a range of ways. For instance, some may have issues with swallowing solid food, but have no issues swallowing liquids at all. In other cases, some may experience difficulty swallowing liquids while solids go down very smoothly. Then there is the extreme scenario where some experience difficulty swallowing their own saliva.
Heartburn
Since esophagitis is a disease of the digestive system, most of the symptoms are therefore some form of broader malfunction or disorder in the digestive system.
Heartburn is a burning pain in the chest and occurs just behind the breastbone. The pain often worsens with ingestion of food, especially in the evening or when in prone positions like lying down or bending over.
Generally, experiencing heartburn occasionally is no cause for alarm and can occur in otherwise healthy people for a variety of reasons. However, persistent and frequent heartburn can be associated with esophagitis.
Nausea
Nausea simply refers to the feeling or urgent need to vomit. It can be either fleeting or persistent.
Nausea can be a result of psychological triggers such as fear or shock, or due to a physical cause like sea sickness or over-vigorous exercise.
Nausea can be caused by a range of diseases and allergies, as well as non-medical issues. However, esophagitis can also cause it. This wide range of causes makes diagnosing the cause of persistent and prolonged nausea difficult. Therefore, you must pay a visit to your general physician to carry out an examination.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a very common symptom and can occur in a variety of ways, ranging from a dull throb to sharp and stabbing pain.
Important Note About Chest Pain
Chest pain is a primary indicator of a heart attack. If you experience chest pain for more than a few minutes, or it comes and goes, seek medical attention immediately. This chest pain can feel like tightness, pressure or general pain.
Chest pain is a symptom of many things, including angina, panic attacks, and stress — so do not panic, but seek medical assistance to be safe.
If your chest pain is not of this type, or is chronic, then it may be related to esophagitis. Consult with your doctor to diagnose and formulate a treatment plan.
Other Symptoms
Some other symptoms of esophagitis include irritation, coughing and belching. These symptoms are of course very common. Do not use these symptoms as a basis for self diagnosis of esophagitis. Instead, monitor the symptoms so that you can better explain to your doctor.
Can Esophagitis Cause Back Pain?
While not everyone with esophagitis experiences back pain, some do. This is because the esophagus and the back are connected through a network of nerves. When the esophagus becomes inflamed, it can irritate these nerves, which can lead to pain in the back. The pain is usually felt in the middle of the back, between the shoulder blades or in the lower back. If you are experiencing back pain alongside other symptoms of esophagitis, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How Long Does Esophagitis Last ?
The length of time esophagitis lasts depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment given. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, mild cases of esophagitis can clear up in a week or two. More severe cases may take longer to heal, from several weeks to months. In some cases, esophagitis can become chronic and require ongoing management.
Causes of Esophagitis
Esophagitis can be caused by a number of conditions, including some that are not common. This is why paying a visit to your doctor is important.
Candida
Candida is a fungus that lives in the human body. It is a yeast and can be found in places like the mouth and the belly. Usually, it is harmless and is dormant in these locations. However, when optimum conditions for multiplication occur, it can cause problems.
The infection caused by candida is called candidiasis. When this multiplication occurs in the mouth or oral region, it results in thrush and is more prevalent in adults with weakened immune systems and children. It can also be found in people who have cancer or diabetes. Upon spreading to the throat, it results in very painful swallowing.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
This disease mainly occurs as a result of stomach acid frequently flowing back into the esophagus. This acid reflux could lead to irritation of the esophageal lining.
One of the most common causes of esophagitis is acid reflux, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and irritates its lining. This can happen due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is responsible for keeping the acid in the stomach. Factors that can increase the risk of acid reflux include obesity, pregnancy, smoking, certain medications, and certain foods and drinks (such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy or fatty foods, and citrus fruits).
To prevent acid reflux and reduce the risk of esophagitis, it is important to adopt healthy habits such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating. Over-the-counter antacids and acid-reducing medications may also help alleviate symptoms.
Many people experience acid reflux on rare occasions, but GERD can occur much more frequently. This leads to irritation of the esophagus.
Vomiting
Frequent and chronic vomiting could result in injuries or damage to the esophagus. This is because the frequent regurgitation of food that passes through the esophagus comes out forcefully. The forceful vomiting then causes small tears to the esophageal inner lining, which could result in esophagitis. These tears could also degenerate to cause a rare condition called Mallory-Weiss syndrome, which could result in even further damage.
Smoking
Smoking is one of the various causative agents of esophagitis. It is one of the main risk factors of gastroesophageal disease, which is one of the causes of esophagitis. Research indicates that there is a strong link between smokers and reflux symptoms. Research also indicates that a cessation in smoking resulted in reduction of reflux symptoms, particularly in individuals with a normal body mass index.
Other Causes
Some other causes of esophagitis include ingestion of toxic substances or swallowing of foreign substances. Also, diets with high acidic contents or excessive caffeine could lead to esophagitis.
Treatment for Esophagitis
Treatment for esophagitis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. Mild cases of esophagitis can be treated with over-the-counter antacids or medications that reduce stomach acid production. More severe cases may require prescription medications or surgery. If you are experiencing back pain and other symptoms of esophagitis, it is important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. In addition to medication, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding foods and drinks that trigger symptoms, eating smaller meals, and losing weight.
Lifestyle modifications
Lifestyle changes can go a long way in relieving Esophagitis symptoms. These include losing weight, eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy and fatty foods, and sleeping with your head elevated. You may also have to quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake. Simple alterations like these can reduce the frequency and severity of your symptoms and improve your overall health.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) can help neutralize or reduce stomach acid. Other medications like prokinetics can improve esophageal motility and emptying of the stomach. It’s crucial to consult your doctor before taking any of these medications for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the esophageal tissue. Your doctor may recommend laparoscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure to repair the esophageal sphincter and prevent acid reflux. This option is for people with severe symptoms, and most people manage to control their symptoms with non-surgical measures.
Alternative Therapies
In addition to conventional treatments, you may find relief from alternative therapies like acupuncture, herbal supplements, and homeopathy. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support or refute the efficacy of these treatments. Inform your doctor if you’re pursuing these options, as it can affect your conventional treatment plan.
Esophagitis Remedies and Supplements
Treatment of esophagitis usually depends on the cause of the ailment. It could involve treatment with medication or surgery. In certain cases, changes in lifestyle could help too.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is an excellent natural remedy for esophagitis. It has a soothing and cooling effect that can relieve inflammation and reduce discomfort around the esophageal region. Aloe vera juice also has vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and aid in recovery. Drink a small amount of aloe vera juice regularly or massage it into the affected area.
Chamomile
Chamomile has a history of assisting people in falling asleep and reducing anxiety. It may also help remedy some digestive issues. Chamomile has been discovered to have certain anti-inflammatory properties and may assist those with mouth ulcers.
Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce esophageal inflammation and soothe digestive issues. It can also help relieve gastrointestinal issues that contribute to esophagitis. Drinking ginger tea or taking ginger supplements can help ease heartburn, nausea, and inflammation.
Marshmallow Root
Marshmallow root has traditionally been used to treat a variety of conditions including skin, respiratory and digestive issues. It is an herb containing a significant amount of mucilage, similar to slippery elm. It has soothing properties that coat and protect the lining of the esophagus, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Drinking marshmallow root tea or taking it in the form of capsules can help soothe symptoms naturally. The active ingredient in marshmallow root is mucilage, which can be consumed in various forms. It may also reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Other Remedies
Other remedies that can be used include licorice, slippery elm and relaxation therapies. Acupuncture users believe that insertion of needles into certain points in the body can treat inflammation.
The Bottom Line
Esophagitis may share certain symptoms with some other ailments of the digestive system. It also has some very common symptoms of other ailments, which is why you shouldn’t jump to conclusions. Make an appointment with your doctor in order for you to undergo the necessary tests to confirm the diagnosis. Keep in mind that prevention is key, and small measures can go a long way in protecting your esophagus.
Many factors in esophagitis are lifestyle based, so minimizing these factors in addition to medical or home treatment may be the best option. Protecting your esophagus is important for maintaining your digestive health and preventing complications such as esophagitis. By understanding the causes and risk factors of esophagitis, you can take steps to reduce your risk and seek medical attention if needed. Be mindful of your diet, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and handle chemicals safely to support your esophageal health. Remember to consult your doctor if you experience any persistent symptoms or discomfort.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.