Erosive Esophagitis FAQ
What causes erosive esophagitis?
Erosive esophagitis is commonly caused by persistent exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid.
What are the symptoms of erosive esophagitis?
Symptoms may include heartburn, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation of food or sour liquid.
How is erosive esophagitis diagnosed?
It is usually diagnosed through an endoscopy, where the doctor can visualize the esophagus and confirm the presence of erosions.
What are the treatment options for erosive esophagitis?
Treatment often involves lifestyle changes, medication to reduce stomach acid, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Can erosive esophagitis lead to complications?
Yes, if left untreated, it can lead to ulcers, strictures, and in some cases, precancerous changes in the esophagus.
How long does it take to heal erosive esophagitis?
Healing time varies for each individual, but it may take several weeks to months with appropriate treatment.
What lifestyle changes can help manage erosive esophagitis?
Avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms.
Is it possible to prevent erosive esophagitis?
By avoiding triggers, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy diet and weight, the risk of developing erosive esophagitis can be lowered.
Are there any dietary recommendations for erosive esophagitis?
Following a low-acid diet, avoiding spicy and acidic foods, and eating smaller, more frequent meals may help manage symptoms.
Can erosive esophagitis be managed without medication?
In milder cases, lifestyle modifications alone may help manage symptoms. However, medication is often necessary for more severe cases.
What are the common medications used for erosive esophagitis?
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, esomeprazole, and lansoprazole are commonly used to reduce stomach acid.
Can erosive esophagitis cause difficulty swallowing?
Yes, inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus due to erosive esophagitis can lead to difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia.
Is erosive esophagitis the same as GERD?
Erosive esophagitis is a severe form of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) where the lining of the esophagus is visibly damaged.
Can erosive esophagitis cause chest pain?
Yes, erosive esophagitis can cause chest pain, often described as a burning sensation behind the breastbone.
Is surgery a common treatment for erosive esophagitis?
Surgery is usually reserved for cases that do not respond to medication or for complications such as esophageal strictures.
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