Understanding Oesophagitis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is Oesophagitis?

Oesophagitis is swelling or irritation of the oesophagus. The oesophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. When this tube becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and trouble swallowing. Oesophagitis can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common in adults. Early treatment helps prevent further problems. According to the World Health Organization, digestive issues like oesophagitis are common worldwide.

Common Symptoms of Oesophagitis

Many people notice symptoms when they eat or drink. But, symptoms can also appear at other times. Recognizing these signs early helps with quick treatment. Common oesophagitis symptoms include:

Pain or burning in the chest (heartburn)

Difficulty or pain when swallowing

Feeling like food is stuck in the throat

Sore throat or hoarse voice

Coughing or frequent hiccups

Nausea or vomiting

Loss of appetite

Sometimes, symptoms are mild. Other times, they can be severe. If you notice these signs, it is important to seek help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several things can cause oesophagitis. Knowing the causes helps with prevention and treatment. The most common causes include:

Acid reflux (stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus)

Allergies to certain foods (eosinophilic oesophagitis)

Infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal)

Medicines that irritate the oesophagus (like painkillers or antibiotics)

Radiation therapy for cancer

Some people have a higher risk. For example, those who smoke, drink alcohol, or are overweight may develop oesophagitis more easily. In addition, people with weak immune systems are at greater risk. Understanding these risk factors can help you make healthy choices.

How Oesophagitis is Diagnosed

Doctors use several tests to diagnose oesophagitis. First, they ask about your symptoms and health history. Then, they may suggest one or more of these tests:

Endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera looks inside your oesophagus.

Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken during endoscopy for testing.

Barium swallow: You drink a special liquid, and X-rays show your oesophagus.

Lab tests: These check for infections or allergies.

Early diagnosis helps prevent serious problems. If you have ongoing symptoms, talk to your doctor about these tests.

Treatment Options

Oesophagitis treatment depends on the cause. However, most people get better with the right care. Common oesophagitis treatment options include:

Medicines to reduce stomach acid (antacids or proton pump inhibitors)

Medicines to treat infections (antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals)

Allergy medicines or special diets for allergic oesophagitis

Changing or stopping medicines that cause irritation

In severe cases, procedures to widen the oesophagus

For best results, follow your doctor’s advice. In addition, regular check-ups help track your progress. According to the CDC, early treatment lowers the risk of long-term problems.

Prevention Tips and Lifestyle Guidance

While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk. Here are some tips on how to prevent oesophagitis:

Eat smaller meals and avoid overeating

Stay upright for at least an hour after eating

Avoid spicy, acidic, or fatty foods

Limit alcohol and stop smoking

Take medicines with plenty of water

Lose weight if you are overweight

Follow your doctor’s advice for allergies or other health issues

Making these changes can help protect your oesophagus. Even small steps can make a big difference over time.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, oesophagitis can lead to serious problems. Therefore, you should see a doctor if you:

Have trouble swallowing or feel food is stuck

Experience chest pain that does not go away

Notice blood in your vomit or stool

Lose weight without trying

Have ongoing symptoms despite treatment

Early care can prevent more serious health issues. If you are worried about your symptoms, do not wait to get help.

For expert gastroenterology care for oesophagitis, consult a gastroenterologist at Capital Clinics for personalized advice on oesophagitis.