Esophagitis in Kansas City, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is the general term for inflammation of your esophagus, or the pipe that delivers food from the mouth to your stomach. Esophagitis can follow multiple underlying issues, like a build-up of the white blood cells known as eosinophils (eosinophilic esophagitis), acid accumulating in your esophagus, infection, a number of medications, or simply allergies.
To get the care you can rely on, contact Digestive Health Specialists to request a consultation with a gastrointestinal provider. Our providers offer treatment for esophagitis in Kansas City, MO, and will work with you to alleviate your symptoms.
What causes esophagitis?
A number of conditions and factors could cause esophagitis. The most common conditions and factors include:
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
- Infections
- Oral medications (such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories)
- Frequent vomiting
- Allergies (commonly to food)
- Acid reflux
To learn more about how the gastroenterology specialists at Digestive Health Specialists can offer you the treatment you need, get in touch with our team and request a consultation.
What are the symptoms of esophagitis?
Symptoms of esophagitis vary from person to person. Common symptoms of esophagitis in adults include:
- Pain with and trouble swallowing
- Pain in the chest
- Acid reflux
- Food getting trapped in the esophagus
- Heartburn
Children can also develop esophagitis. Common symptoms of this condition in children can include:
- Difficulty feeding/eating
- Failure to thrive (failing to grow at a normal pace, malnutrition, etc.)
It is important to request a consultation with a GI provider at Digestive Health Specialists if your symptoms persist longer than a few days, over-the-counter heartburn medications are not providing relief, you have pain when eating, or if your symptoms occur alongside flu-like symptoms such as a headache, fever, and body aches.
What are the treatment options for esophagitis?
Treatment for esophagitis centers on alleviating the symptoms of esophagitis. The treatment strategy differs based on the cause of the condition. Several of these treatment options could include:
- Medications that reduce acid production (antacids)
- Changes in diet
- Antivirals
- Surgery (to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux)
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Steroids
- Antibiotics
- Switching medications (if caused by oral medications)
- Dilation (to expand the diameter of the esophagus)
- Prescription-strength acid reflux medications (H-2 receptor blockers)
One primary goal of avoiding and treating esophagitis is to reduce acid reflux. This can be achieved by avoiding the consumption of caffeine, mint-flavored beverages and foods, and any other foods that cause acid regurgitation. Making the following lifestyle modifications could offer relief:
- Avoid lying down following a meal or snack
- Avoid tobacco use
- Good pill-taking habits (including eating before taking your medication, drinking a fair amount of water with it, and avoiding lying down after taking medication)
- Lose weight
Esophagitis FAQs
What potential health issues can arise from untreated esophagitis?
If esophagitis is left untreated, several serious complications can develop. These include the scarring and narrowing of the esophagus, known as strictures, which can make swallowing difficult. There's also an increased likelihood of developing Barrett's esophagus, a condition that can lead to esophageal cancer. Additionally, individuals may experience ongoing pain and discomfort.
Is there a way to prevent esophagitis?
Preventing esophagitis largely involves managing known risk factors. Measures such as controlling acid reflux through weight management, eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding eating before bedtime, and eliminating foods that worsen symptoms are often effective. For allergic esophagitis, it is essential to avoid specific allergens. Regular consultations with a healthcare provider are also beneficial in managing and preventing the progression of esophagitis.
What are the dietary recommendations to manage esophagitis?
Dietary modifications can play a crucial role in managing esophagitis and alleviating its symptoms. It is advisable to avoid foods that irritate the esophagus, such as spicy and acidic foods, caffeinated drinks, chocolate, and high-fat or fried items. Opting for smaller, more frequent meals over larger ones and avoiding late-night meals can also help. Including gentle, soothing foods like oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt in your diet can contribute to symptom relief.
Seek treatment for esophagitis
If you need care for esophagitis in Kansas City, MO, our team is here to help. We are a compassionate group of digestive health providers who will listen to your health issues so we can create a treatment strategy that addresses your symptoms. Request a consultation at Digestive Health Specialists today to get started.
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