Erosive Esophagitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and damage to the lining of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. This condition is often associated with the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, a phenomenon known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Causes
The primary cause of erosive esophagitis is the chronic exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid. This can occur when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular ring that separates the esophagus from the stomach, fails to close properly. When the LES is weakened or relaxes inappropriately, stomach acid can flow back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. Conditions such as hiatal hernia, obesity, and pregnancy can contribute to the development of erosive esophagitis by putting additional pressure on the LES.
Symptoms
The symptoms of erosive esophagitis can vary in severity. Common signs include heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest that often worsens after eating or when lying down. Other symptoms may include difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), regurgitation of food or sour liquid, and chest pain. Individuals with erosive esophagitis may also experience coughing, wheezing, and hoarseness, as stomach acid irritates the respiratory tract.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing erosive esophagitis typically involves a combination of medical history, symptom assessment, and diagnostic tests. Endoscopy is a common procedure used to visualize the esophagus and identify signs of inflammation or damage. During endoscopy, a flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus. Biopsy samples may be taken during this procedure to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes.
Other diagnostic tools include pH monitoring, which measures acid levels in the esophagus, and imaging studies like barium swallow or esophagram, which provide a detailed view of the esophagus.
Complications
If left untreated, erosive esophagitis can lead to complications such as esophageal stricture (narrowing of the esophagus), Barrett’s esophagus (changes in the lining of the esophagus that may increase the risk of esophageal cancer), and respiratory issues due to the aspiration of stomach acid into the lungs.
Treatment
Management of erosive esophagitis aims to alleviate symptoms, promote healing of the esophageal lining, and prevent complications. Lifestyle modifications often play a crucial role, including dietary changes, weight loss, and avoiding lying down after meals. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are commonly prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and promote healing.
In severe cases or when medications prove ineffective, surgical intervention may be considered. Fundoplication, a procedure that reinforces the LES, is one surgical option to prevent acid reflux.
Click here for more information http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/esophagusdisorders.html
