Esophagitis in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is esophagitis?
Esophagitis is the name for general inflammation of your esophagus, the pipe that passes food from your mouth to your stomach. It can have several underlying issues. This can include a convergence of the white blood cells (eosinophilic esophagitis), acid accumulating in the esophagus, infection, assorted medications, or simply allergies.
To access specialized treatment for this affliction, contact GI Alliance of Illinois to request a visit with a GI provider. Our team offers care for esophagitis in Illinois and can make sure you receive the help you need so that you will find relief.
What causes esophagitis?
An array of factors and conditions may lead to the development of esophagitis in Illinois. Some of the most common include:
- Oral medications (such as aspirin and antinflammatories)
- Allergies
- Infections
- Persistent vomiting
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)
- Acid reflux
To hear more about the factors that may cause esophagitis and how our gastrointestinal physicians at GI Alliance of Illinois can help you get the care you need, contact our team and request an appointment.
What are the signs and symptoms of esophagitis?
Common symptoms of esophagitis in adults include:
- Acid reflux
- Pain with and difficulty swallowing
- Heartburn
- Food getting caught in the esophagus
- Pain in the chest
Young children can also become afflicted with esophagitis. The common signs of this esophageal condition in kids may include:
- Difficulty feeding/eating
- Failure to thrive (not growing at a normal rate, malnutrition, etc.
We urge you to request a consultation in Chicago, IL, or Bloomington, IL, with a GI provider at GI Alliance of Illinois should symptoms linger beyond a few days. You should also request an appointment if over-the-counter heartburn medications fail to provide relief, it is painful to eat, or if your symptoms occur in combination with flu-like symptoms such as fever, a headache, and body aches.
What are the treatments for esophagitis?
The treatment strategy for esophagitis in Illinois focuses on relieving the symptoms. The treatment protocol differs based on the root source of the condition. Several of those treatments could include:
- Dilation
- H-2 receptor blockers (prescription-strength acid reflux medications)
- Antacids (medications that reduce acid production
- Antibiotics
- Antivirals
- Changing medications (if caused by oral medications)
- Surgery (to strengthen the esophageal sphincter and decrease acid regurgitation)
- Proton pump inhibitors
- Dietary restrictions
- Steroids
A leading focus of the treatment and prevention of esophagitis at GI Alliance of Illinois is to decrease acid regurgitation. This may be achieved by avoiding caffeine, mint-flavored foods and drinks, and additional foods that initiate acid regurgitation. Making the following lifestyle changes might also provide relief:
- Avoid lying down following a meal or snack
- Tobacco use cessation
- Proper pill-taking protocols (such as eating before taking medication, consuming plenty of water with it, and avoiding lying down after taking medication)
- Losing excess weight
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 (strictures), an increased risk of Barrett's esophagus (which can elevate the risk of esophageal cancer), and persistent pain or discomfort.
Can I prevent esophagitis?
To prevent esophagitis, focus on managing risk factors effectively. This includes controlling acid reflux by maintaining a healthy weight, eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding late-night eating, and eliminating trigger foods. If you have an allergic type of esophagitis, it's important to avoid known allergens. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor and prevent complications.
What dietary changes can help manage esophagitis?
Managing esophagitis often requires dietary changes to avoid irritating the esophagus. It's wise to steer clear of spicy foods, acidic fruits and juices, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, and fatty or fried foods. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones and avoiding late-night eating can also be helpful. Incorporating soothing foods like oatmeal, bananas, applesauce, and yogurt may help reduce symptoms.
Dedicated care for your needs
When you need personalized care for esophagitis in Illinois, we are ready to help. We are a skilled team of digestive health specialists who understand your GI concerns and will create a treatment strategy that targets your symptoms. Request a consultation at GI Alliance of Illinois now to hear more.
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