Esophagitis in Denver, CO

Some of the most common symptoms of esophagitis in adults include:

• Pain in the chest
• Food getting trapped in the esophagus
• Acid regurgitation
• Difficulty and pain when swallowing
• Heartburn

Young children can also be affected by esophagitis. Some of the more common indications of this esophageal condition in children might include:

• Difficulty feeding/eating
• Failure to thrive (FTT) (failing to grow at a normal pace, malnutrition, etc.

We encourage you to schedule an appointment with a GI provider at Colorado Gastroenterology if symptoms linger beyond a few days, over-the-counter heartburn medications are not working, eating is difficult due to pain, or if your symptoms occur in combination with flu-like symptoms such as fever, a headache, and body aches.

Treatments for esophagitis focus on targeting and alleviating the symptoms of esophagitis. The treatment approach varies based on the root cause of the condition. Several treatment options could involve:

• Switching medications (if caused by oral medications)
• Antibiotics
• Prescription-strength acid reflux medications (H-2 receptor blockers)
• Antivirals
• Medications that reduce acid production (antacids)
• Esophageal dilation (to widen the esophagus)
• Proton pump inhibitors
• Steroids
• Dietary restrictions
• Surgery (to fortify the esophageal sphincter and reduce acid reflux)

One primary focus of avoiding and treating esophagitis is to minimize acid reflux. This could be accomplished by avoiding the consumption of alcohol, mint-flavored food items, and other foods that cause acid regurgitation. Incorporating the following lifestyle improvements might also help:

• Smoking cessation
• A healthy weight loss plan
• Good pill-taking habits (such as eating before taking medication, consuming plenty of water with it, and remaining upright after taking pills)
• Avoid lying down following a meal or snack