Esophagitis and Stricture in Houston, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is a term used to describe swelling or irritation in the esophagus. Stricture refers to a narrowing of some part of the esophagus, which can cause issues when trying to swallow food, drinks, or medicine. If left untreated, esophagitis might cause long-term damage to the esophagus, creating swelling or scar tissue and resulting in an esophageal stricture. A stricture can cause further health complications by making it difficult to consume needed nutrition or medications.
Esophagitis might be caused by a buildup of stomach acid in the esophagus, bacterial infection, allergies, a side effect of certain medications, or an excess of eosinophils (white blood cells), a condition called eosinophilic esophagitis.
Individuals struggling with esophagitis in the Houston, TX area can find relief by partnering with a qualified digestive health specialist. The providers at Gastroenterology Consultants are trained to address a wide range of gastrointestinal health issues and can help you restore your digestive wellness. Please call one of our local offices today.
What are some of the root causes of esophagitis?
Esophagitis can often be traced to a handful of possible causes. Among the most common are:
- Bacterial infection
- Acid reflux
- Frequent regurgitation
- Some medications (like aspirin or anti-inflammatories)
- Allergies
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
To learn more about the causes and conditions that can lead to esophagitis or to discuss treatment, request a consultation with a GI physician at Gastroenterology Consultants.
What are the primary signs of esophagitis?
Some of the most commonly observed signs of esophagitis in adults include:
- Chest pain
- Pain and/or trouble completing the act of swallowing
- Acid reflux
- Heartburn
- Food getting stuck in the esophagus
Esophagitis can also develop in younger children, who may experience the following symptoms:
- Difficulty eating
- Failure to thrive (defined as inadequate growth or malnutrition in early development)
If you have noticed any of the above-listed symptoms in yourself or your child, you may benefit by scheduling a consultation with one of the specialists at Gastroenterology Consultants. If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, are accompanied by flu-like symptoms, make it difficult to eat, or aren't relieved by over-the-counter solutions, then we strongly urge you to contact our GI physicians soon.
How do you treat esophagitis?
Esophagitis treatments commonly focus on alleviating the condition's symptoms and widening the esophagus (if a stricture is present). Your recommended treatment may differ according to what caused the esophagitis. Some common therapies include:
- Dietary changes
- Esophageal dilation (to combat narrowing of the esophagus)
- Steroids
- Antiviral or antibiotic medication
- Prescription-strength acid reflux medicine
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Surgery (in some cases)
One of the main goals of esophagitis management is to reduce acid reflux in the patient. This may be done by changing your diet to avoid substances like coffee (or other caffeinated drinks), peppermint (and similar products), and other foods that trigger acid reflux. Your physician might also suggest some of the following life changes:
- Losing excess weight
- Quitting smoking (if you're a smoker)
- Stay upright for a while after eating
- Addressing your prescriptions to ensure you're using your medications correctly (eating before taking pills, for example)
Esophagitis and Stricture FAQs
What potential health issues arise if esophagitis goes untreated?
Untreated esophagitis may lead to several serious health issues, including the formation of scars and narrowing in the esophagus, known as strictures. This condition also heightens the risk of developing Barrett's esophagus, which can further increase the likelihood of esophageal cancer, alongside causing ongoing pain and discomfort.
Is it possible to prevent esophagitis?
Preventing esophagitis involves addressing and managing the underlying risk factors effectively. Steps include managing acid reflux by losing excess weight, consuming smaller meals, avoiding eating close to bedtime, and cutting out foods that aggravate symptoms. For individuals prone to allergic reactions, steering clear of specific allergens is vital. Regular appointments with a GI provider are also beneficial in managing and preventing the progression of esophagitis.
What dietary modifications are effective in managing esophagitis?
To manage esophagitis, it is often necessary to make dietary changes that prevent further irritation of the esophagus. It is advisable to avoid spicy and acidic foods, caffeinated drinks, chocolate, and high-fat or fried items. Opting for smaller, more frequent meals over large ones and avoiding meals right before bedtime can also alleviate symptoms. Including gentle, soothing foods such as oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt in your diet can help reduce discomfort.
Board-certified care for your digestive health
If you or someone you know needs treatment for esophagitis, reach out to Gastroenterology Consultants for assistance. Our providers have experience treating esophagitis and numerous other GI disorders in Houston, TX patients and may be able to help you, as well. Start your journey back to wellness by requesting a consultation with one of our skilled GI physicians.
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