Esophageal inflammation

Description

Esophagitis or esophageal inflammation. The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophageal mucous membrane. The esophageal inflammation can occur due to infection, radiation, acid or other irritants. The most common cause is the gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn), when the stomach acid is coming back to the esophagus.

Symptoms

Pain in swallowing, symptoms of reflux (heartburn), chest pain, nausea, throat pain, hoarseness.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being performed. Direct visualization withEsophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGDS) may be recommended if the initial treatment fails.

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG), lipase, troponin and X-rays.

Additional analyses

Endoscopy, series of examinations of lower gastrointestinal tract, fungus culture.

Specialists

General Practice, Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Discovering the cause that led to the inflammation is essential for the success of the treatment. Medicines for esophagitis include proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, anti-inflammatory drugs, medicines for nausea and treatment of the infection (such as antifungal medications).