Esophagitis in Arizona

Several common signs of esophagitis in adults are:

 

• Difficulty and pain when swallowing
• Heartburn
• Chest pain
• Food becoming trapped in the esophagus
• Acid regurgitation

 

Young children can also become afflicted with esophagitis. Some of the more common signs of this condition in kids can involve:

 

• Failure to thrive (not developing at a normal rate, malnutrition, etc.
• Difficulty feeding/eating

 

We encourage you to request a consultation with a gastroenterologist at Arizona Digestive Health should symptoms linger for more than a few days, over-the-counter antacid medications are not working, eating is difficult due to pain, or if your symptoms occur alongside flu-like symptoms such as fever, a headache, and body aches.

Treatment for esophagitis focuses on lessening the symptoms associated with esophagitis in the individual. The treatment protocol varies according to the root source of the condition. Some of those treatments could include:

 

• Diet control
• Steroids
• Antivirals
• Antibiotics
• H-2 receptor blockers (prescription-strength acid reflux medications)
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Antacids (medications that reduce acid production
• Esophageal dilation
• Switching medications (if caused by oral medications)
• Surgery (to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid regurgitation)

 

One primary goal of treating and avoiding esophagitis is to decrease acid reflux. This may be achieved by avoiding alcohol, caffeine, mint-flavored beverages and foods, and any other foods that cause acid reflux. Making the following lifestyle changes can also help:

 

• Proper pill-taking protocols (such as eating before taking medication, consuming a fair amount of water with pills, and avoiding lying down afterward)
• Quit tobacco use
• Lose weight
• Avoid lying down after eating

To speak with a provider on more ways to treat esophagitis in Phoenix, AZ, consult an Arizona Digestive Health provider near you.