Being woken up by terrible acid reflux, each and every night, can get very frustrating, let alone painful. Esophagitis is the inflammation of the esophagus (throat). A recent article by The Orange County Register discusses this condition and how doctors are seeing more patients with this problem; doing all the things you are meant to do to avoid acid reflux weren’t working, “Gastroenterologists only saw a case once in a lifetime, but now some are starting to see new cases once every week.”
Symptoms of esophagitis include:
- Food sticking to the throat while trying to swallow
- Difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn not improving, even if using antacids
Here are a few factors that can cause this condition:
Acid Reflux: the lower esophageal sphincter is a valve-like structure, keeping acidic contents from the stomach out of the esophagus. If the valve opens when it shouldn’t or doesn’t close correctly, the acidic contents are pushed up into the esophagus, causing acid reflux.
Diet: an allergist can be great at helping to determine which foods will cause allergic reactions; however, foods such as soy, milk, eggs, wheat, nuts and seafood can be responsible for creating an allergic reaction in the esophagus. Citrus fruits, caffeine, garlic, chocolate, and tomato-based foods are also known to trigger esophagitis.
Medications: aspirin and ibuprofen are popular medications that are known to aggravate the esophagus. Antibiotics, such as tetracycline and doxycycline, can contribute to esophagitis, as well as potassium chloride.
Esophagitis is a treatable condition. Depending on your symptoms and severity of the conditions, many times treatment is non-invasive and effective. Pain relief can also be achieved through medications, but your doctor may likely suggest a change in diet and exercise. Obesity and smoking are two major factors in development of this condition; therefore, diet and exercise are key. Severe cases may mean surgery is necessary. Similar to a hiatus hernia procedure, a part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophageal sphincter. This will prevent gastric fluids finding themselves back in the esophagus. Come see Dr. Darido at Houston Heartburn to determine the right steps for you.