Esophagitis is inflammation, irritation or swelling of the esophagus, the tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach. It may produce symptoms such as heartburn, abdominal discomfort, nausea and painful swallowing.

Esophagitis is most often caused by a common condition called gastroesophageal reflux diseasegastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in which the contents of the stomach flow back (reflux) into the esophagus and damage its lining. Some medications may also cause esophagitis, either as a side effect of their therapeutic use or by becoming lodged in the esophagus. Less common causes of esophagitis include infections, allergic reactions and chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer.

Many factors can increase a person’s risk of developing esophagitis, including pregnancy, cigarette smoking and being overweight. People with certain other diseases may also be prone to developing esophagitis. These include diabetes, the autoimmune condition scleroderma and conditions characterized by frequent vomiting.

Esophagitis may be diagnosed by a physician during a physical examination that includes a medical history and certain diagnostic tests (e.g., endoscopy).

Treatment of esophagitis depends on its cause. In cases caused by GERD, patients may incorporate lifestyle changes to treat (or prevent) esophagitis. These include avoiding eating meals too close to bedtime, quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol. Patients may be treated with medications for GERD, such as foaming agents, H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.

Patients who do not respond to lifestyle changes and medications may require surgery (e.g., fundoplication) to correct the condition.

In some cases, early detection and treatment of GERD may help prevent the onset of esophagitis.