How long does it take to cure esophagitis?

Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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The treatment period for esophagitis is generally around 4 to 6 weeks, and is considered appropriate. Most patients, especially after 4 to 6 weeks, can control the symptoms of esophagitis through active medication treatment. Of course, a small number of patients, due to their physical condition such as obesity, may have severe reflux symptoms and might need long-term oral medication, such as antacids, maintaining the effects with the minimum dosage generally sufficient to control symptoms. It is recommended that patients consume easily digestible food, avoid overeating, eat smaller meals more frequently, and pay attention to their posture after meals to control the symptoms of esophagitis through diet. If this is ineffective, patients are advised to control symptoms with oral medications and maintain with the minimum dosage for life; generally, this can be controlled and surgical intervention is not necessary. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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What to eat with esophagitis?

For patients with esophagitis, it is recommended that they eat an easily digestible, clean diet, but they should eat smaller, more frequent meals and not overeat. After eating, patients should pay attention to their body position; it is advised not to lie down flat immediately after eating. Instead, sit for half an hour or engage in light activity before lying down once any significant bloating has improved. For food, it is suggested that patients eat easily digestible, clean foods such as rice noodles and pasta, and avoid high sugar and high-fat intake. If symptoms are still pronounced, oral medications can be added, such as those that protect the intestinal mucosa, protect the stomach mucosa, and improve gastrointestinal motility. For most patients, the above treatments can provide some relief and control of symptoms like regurgitation and heartburn in esophagitis. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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Can esophagitis cause chest tightness?

Esophagitis generally does not cause symptoms of chest tightness, as the inflammation in the esophagus typically leads to symptoms of the digestive system, and does not cause disorders of the respiratory or circulatory systems. Clinically, common symptoms of esophagitis include a burning sensation, along with difficulty swallowing and pain behind the breastbone. When the esophagitis is severe, it can lead to a narrowing of the esophageal lumen, causing a choking sensation when swallowing food, and possibly inducing vomiting. The inflammation can cause bleeding, which may manifest as vomiting blood or black stools.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What department do you go to for esophagitis?

Esophagitis is a relatively common disease in gastroenterology, so patients with esophagitis should visit the gastroenterology department. Generally, clinicians will inquire in detail about the medical history to understand the progression of the disease and the symptoms of the patient. Routine examinations typically include a barium swallow test or an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Under a barium meal examination, disorders of the esophageal mucosal folds and narrowing of the lumen can be detected. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy can reveal inflammatory changes in the esophageal mucosa. Through the results of these examinations, systematic treatment can be administered.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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What should you avoid eating if you have esophagitis?

There are many foods that should be avoided with esophagitis, as any food that irritates the esophagus and worsens the condition should be avoided. First are dry, hard, cold, overly hot, or gas-producing foods, such as nuts, walnuts, as well as milk, soy milk, bread, and other foods that produce a lot of gas. Also, avoid smoking, alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and other irritating foods. Focus on consuming nutritious and easily digestible foods, maintain a regular eating schedule, and pay attention to food hygiene, ensuring meals are timely and in proper amounts.

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Written by Zhai Guo Dong
Gastroenterology
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How is esophagitis treated?

Esophagitis is clinically common due to acid reflux and various physical and chemical irritants that cause inflammation. Therefore, we often recommend treatments that suppress stomach acid and protect the gastric mucosa. Additionally, if there are physical and chemical irritants, patients should avoid using or accidentally consuming certain medications, foods, or other chemicals that could cause esophagitis.