Erosive esophagitis is a fairly common condition that is usually caused by GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Other causes include ingestion of strong chemicals, complications from radiation treatment in the chest or neck area, excessive vomiting and infections. Although erosive esophagitis is an uncomfortable condition, it is fairly easy to treat with medication.
Effects
Erosive esophagitis usually causes the same symptoms as GERD, but these symptoms may be more pronounced. Heartburn occurs in almost everyone who has GERD or esophagitis, and may be accompanied by upper abdominal discomfort, acid reflux, hoarseness, cough, wheezing and chest pain similar to that caused by a heart attack. Symptoms are usually more severe when lying down, and may cause the affected person to wake during the night.
Identification
Erosive esophagitis is usually diagnosed using endoscopy. A flexible tube called an endoscope is put down the mouth and into the esophagus to look for irritation and damage. The condition of the esophagus is scored on a scale of 0 to 4. Grade 0 indicates the esophagus looks normal, although there may be changes in the cells. Grade 1 indicates that the esophagus has some redness or swelling. Grades 2 to 4 are called erosive esophagitis and include noticeable damage to the tissue lining the esophagus.
Prevention/Solution
Most cases of erosive esophagitis can be treated with medications that reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces. These medications allow the esophagus to heal, often within a few weeks. However, a maintenance dose of the medication prescribed may be necessary indefinitely to prevent recurrence. Lifestyle measures can also be taken to relieve symptoms, speed healing and help prevent the condition from recurring. These include limiting your intake of spicy or acidic foods, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, eating smaller meals and elevating the head of the bed by approximately 6 inches.
Warning
Although erosive esophagitis rarely causes serious problems, it is important to be aware of the complications that can occur with this disease. Esophagitis that is severe or left untreated for a long period of time can lead to strictures (scar tissue) in the esophagus that can create difficulty when swallowing. Sudden worsening of pain and difficulty breathing can be caused by a perforation in the esophagus; this is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not treated. Sometimes erosive esophagitis leads to uncontrolled bleeding; if this occurs, you may begin vomiting blood or a material that looks like coffee grounds. If you experience any of these symptoms, get medical help immediately.
Considerations
Erosive esophagitis and GERD are sometimes preventable illnesses. It makes sense to reevaluate your lifestyle if you are diagnosed with either condition, because you may be able to lessen the severity of the illness or prevent recurrences by living a healthier lifestyle. Smoking, for example, contributes to the development of erosive esophagitis. By quitting smoking, you may be able to prevent the condition from coming back in the future. Other risk factors for erosive esophagitis include being overweight, inducing vomiting to control your weight (bulimia), eating large meals and drinking heavily.
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