Alternate Names: Inflammation - esophagus
Causes and Risks:
Esophagitis can be caused by an infection or irritation of the esophagus. Esophageal infection can occur because of bacteria, viruses (such as herpes or cytomegalovirus), fungi, and yeast (especially Candida infections).
Irritation can occur because of backflow of acid fluid from the stomach to the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux). It can also occur because of vomiting, surgery, medications, or hernias.
The infection or irritation can cause the tissues to become inflamed and occasionally cause ulcers. There may also be difficulty when swallowing, and a burning sensation in esophagus.
Related topics:
Symptoms:
- difficulty swallowing
- painful swallowing
- heart burn (reflux)
- oral lesions (herpes)
Signs and Tests:
Treatment: Treatment depends on the specific cause.
Prognosis: The disorders that cause esophagitis usually respond to treatment.
Complications:
If untreated, esophagitis can cause severe discomfort, swallowing difficulty to the extent of causing malnutrition or dehydration, and eventual scarring of the esophagus. Rarely, a condition called Barrett’s esophagus can develop which can lead to cancer of the esophagus.
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of esophagitis.
