Esophagitis in San Antonio, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is the inflammation of one's esophagus, which transports food and liquids from one's mouth to the stomach. Esophagitis may result from several underlying issues such as an accumulation of the white blood cells known as eosinophils (eosinophilic esophagitis), acid buildup in your esophagus, infection, assorted medications, or, simply, allergies.
To find reliable help for this condition, connect with San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates to request an appointment with a gastrointestinal specialist. Our providers offer help for esophagitis in San Antonio, TX and can give you the care you need so that you can experience relief.
What causes esophagitis?
Many factors and conditions can lead to esophagitis. The most common include:
- Allergies (commonly to food)
- Recurrent vomiting
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
- Infections
- Acid regurgitation
- Oral medications (such as aspirin and anti-inflammatories)
For further details surrounding the various causes of esophagitis and how the gastroenterologists at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates can help you get the treatment you need, reach out to a location in your community and request a consultation.
What are the signs and symptoms of esophagitis?
Some of the most common symptoms or signs of esophagitis in adults involve:
- Chest pain
- Difficulty and pain when swallowing
- Food impaction – food getting caught in the esophagus
- Acid regurgitation
- Heartburn
Young children can also develop esophagitis. Common signs of this condition in young kids can include:
- Difficulty feeding/eating
- Failure to thrive (failing to grow at a normal pace, malnutrition, etc.
You should request a consultation with a gastroenterology provider at a San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location near you if symptoms persist longer than a few days, over-the-counter antacid medications are not providing relief, eating is difficult due to pain, 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 minimizing the symptoms in the patient. The treatment can differ depending on the root cause of the condition. Some of these treatment options might include:
- Changing medications (if caused by oral medications)
- Surgery (to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid regurgitation)
- H-2 receptor blockers (prescription-strength acid reflux medications)
- Steroids
- Antivirals
- Dietary restrictions
- Esophageal dilation
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Antibiotics
- Antacids (medications that reduce acid production
The main goal of the prevention and treatment of esophagitis is to diminish acid reflux. This might be achieved by avoiding the consumption of caffeine, mint-flavored food items, and any additional foods that trigger acid regurgitation. Incorporating the following lifestyle changes could also help:
- Lose weight
- Stop smoking
- Proper pill-taking protocols (including eating before taking medication, drinking plenty of water with it, and avoiding lying down after taking pills)
- Avoid lying down after eating
Esophagitis FAQs
Can esophagitis lead to complications if left untreated?
If esophagitis is not properly treated, it can lead to complications such as scarring and narrowing of the esophagus, known as strictures. There is also an increased risk of developing Barrett's esophagus, a condition that heightens the likelihood of esophageal cancer. Chronic pain or discomfort may persist as a result of untreated esophagitis, impacting daily life and overall well-being.
Can I prevent esophagitis?
Preventing esophagitis primarily involves managing risk factors. This includes controlling acid reflux through strategies like weight loss, eating smaller meals, avoiding late-night eating, and eliminating trigger foods. For individuals with allergic forms of esophagitis, it's crucial to avoid specific allergens. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is also important for managing symptoms effectively and preventing complications associated with esophagitis.
What dietary changes can help manage esophagitis?
Managing esophagitis often requires dietary adjustments to prevent aggravating the esophagus. It's advisable to avoid foods such as spicy dishes, acidic fruits and juices, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, and fatty or fried foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones and refraining from eating close to bedtime can also be beneficial. Including soothing foods like oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt in your diet can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Individualized care for your GI health
If you or a loved one need expert care for esophagitis in San Antonio, TX we can help. We are an experienced team of gastroenterology providers who take the time to listen to your GI concerns so we can develop a treatment strategy that targets your symptoms. Request a consultation at your local San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates now to find out more.
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