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Q.

How is esophagitis treated?

Related Topics: Esophagitis
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A.

Treatment for esophagitis depends on its cause. Possible treatments include:

  • Medications that block acid production, like heartburn drugs.
  • Antibiotics, antifungals, or antivirals to treat an infection.
  • Pain medications that can be gargled or swallowed.
  • Corticosteroid medication to reduce inflammation.
  • Intravenous (by vein) nutrition to allow the esophagus to heal and to reduce the likelihood of malnourishment or dehydration.
  • Endoscopy to remove any lodged pill fragments.
  • Surgery to remove the damaged part of the esophagus.

While being treated for esophagitis, there are certain steps you can take to help limit discomfort.

  • Avoid spicy foods such as those with pepper, chili powder, curry, and nutmeg.
  • Avoid hard foods such as nuts, crackers, and raw vegetables.
  • Avoid acidic foods and beverages such as tomatoes, oranges, grapefruits, and their juices. Instead, try imitation fruit drinks with vitamin C.
  • Add more soft foods such as applesauce, cooked cereals, mashed potatoes, custards, puddings, and high protein shakes to your diet.
  • Take small bites and chew food thoroughly.
  • If swallowing becomes increasingly difficult, try tilting your head upward so the food flows to the back of the throat before swallowing.
  • Drink liquids through a straw to make swallowing easier.
  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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