Reflux gastritis and reflux esophagitis are not the same.

Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 07, 2024
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It's different. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) refers to the abnormal reflux of stomach or duodenal fluids into the esophagus, causing a series of symptoms. Under endoscopy, severe esophageal inflammation and erosion can be seen, along with ulcers, fibrosis, etc. Prolonged episodes can lead to the development of Barrett's esophagus. On the other hand, reflux gastritis generally refers to bile reflux gastritis, which as the name suggests, is caused by the reflux of bile into the stomach. Endoscopically, swelling of the gastric mucosa can typically be seen, along with the presence of residual bile in the stomach, bile staining, and intestinal metaplasia, among others. Both conditions have clinically similar symptoms, including heartburn, acid reflux, and pain.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can you drink sugar water after vomiting from reflux esophagitis?

Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease can drink sugar water after vomiting, as sugar water is not spicy or irritating. Patients should avoid spicy foods, chocolate, coffee, strong alcohol, and strong tea, and should consume low-fat foods. It's also important for patients to eat frequent small meals rather than large ones, especially during dinner, and to avoid lying down immediately after eating. They should also consistently take their prescribed medication and go for regular check-ups.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What should I do if reflux esophagitis causes a fever?

Reflux esophagitis, if accompanied by fever, might indicate the possibility of an infectious disease. It is necessary to further determine whether there is an infection and its location. Complete blood count and C-reactive protein tests can be conducted. At the same time, a follow-up gastroscopy should be done to observe the condition of the esophageal lesions, and histopathological examinations might be necessary when needed. Patients with reflux esophagitis require active treatment to suppress gastric acid secretion, and can also use gastroprotective agents, such as magnesium trisilicate and sucralfate. Prokinetic drugs like mosapride and itopride are also needed for treatment. Dietary adjustments should focus on a bland diet, avoiding spicy and irritating foods.

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Written by Luo Peng
Thoracic Surgery
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Reflux esophagitis is divided into several grades.

Reflux esophagitis can be classified into four grades based on the extent of esophageal mucosal damage: Grade A, B, C, and D. Grade A mainly involves damage to the folds of the esophageal mucosa, generally not exceeding 5 millimeters. Grade B refers to damage greater than 5 millimeters. Grade C indicates that the damage to the esophageal mucosa reaches 75% of the entire circumference of the esophagus; any damage below 75% falls into Grade C. Grade D, on the other hand, is quite severe, with extensive damage around the entire circumference of the esophagus, mainly divided into these four grades.

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Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease?

The following are some symptoms: The most common and typical symptom is heartburn. It mainly manifests as a burning discomfort or pain behind the sternum and below the xiphoid process. This usually occurs about an hour after eating and may extend upward from the lower end of the sternum to the neck and between the shoulder blades, often accompanied by nausea. Another common symptom is acid reflux, which generally occurs more often on an empty stomach. Another symptom is chest pain, mainly caused by irritation of the esophageal mucosa leading to spasms. There is also difficulty swallowing, which is quite common; initially, it is often caused by a stress-induced spasm. In later stages, it is mostly due to the proliferation of fibrous tissue forming scars, leading to esophageal narrowing. Some less common symptoms include stomach bloating, pharyngitis, cough, asthma, and others.

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Written by Luo Peng
Thoracic Surgery
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Reflux esophagitis is caused by what?

There are many causes of reflux esophagitis. The main issue is due to the acidic digestive fluids from the stomach entering the esophagus. The primary cause of this is problems with the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, commonly referred to by doctors as the LES. Additionally, increased abdominal pressure or some gastrointestinal issues can also lead to reflux esophagitis.