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Esophagitis are inflammatory reactions in the esophagus that occur as a result of thermal factors such as burns, chemical factors (e.g. acids and bases, i.e. lyes) or biological factors (fungal or bacterial).
Causes of inflammation and narrowing of the esophagus
The cause of oesophagitis or narrowing of the esophagus (especially of the lower part of the esophagus) may be irritation with acidic gastric contents (e.g. from vomiting and repeated regurgitation or in postoperative conditions). In addition, it is believed that the cause of oesophagitis can sometimes be seen as small tears or ulcerations in the lining of the esophagus, accompanied by a burning burning sensation in the esophagus, usually caused by a lack of iron in the body.
In cases of burns or exposure to chemical stimuli (such as accidental or suicidal drinking of chemical toxic compounds), the causes and timing of these changes are easy to determine. The consequence of this action is sudden and intense spasmodic pains in the esophageal wall, sometimes also a cough reflex, often accompanied by vomiting.
The esophagus is usually narrowed as a long-term consequence of the thermal action and concentrated acids and lyes. Taking into account the degree of narrowing, they are usually manifested by problems with swallowing (especially of larger bites) and pain when swallowing.
Inflammation and strictures of the esophagus – diagnosis
Bacterial or fungal esophagitis and strictures are a bigger diagnostic problem because it is more difficult to determine the onset of the disease, and additionally there are milder symptoms, such as burning in the esophagus, pain in the esophagus or pain when swallowing food.
The diagnosis of chronic inflammation of the esophagus and its possible consequences in the form of strictures requires the following:
- radiological tests,
- endoscopic examinations (esophagoscopy).
If a fungal or bacterial esophagitis or stricture is suspected, a bacteriological and mycological examination should be performed.
First aid in case of inflammation and esophageal stricture
First aid in esophageal inflammation is very important and should be provided to the patient immediately after any of the above-mentioned factors is activated.
In the event of unexpectedly drinking hot liquid (soup, coffee, tea, etc.) or swallowing hot bites of food, the patient should be given a neutral cold liquid (e.g. tea, water, milk) as soon as possible, which will alleviate the pain and may reduce the undesirable effects.
How to treat inflammation and strictures of the esophagus?
In the case of burns or toxic-chemical damage, treatment is based on the above-mentioned pre-medical first aid and the prevention of scarring consequences and strictures. In the case of strictures, mechanical dilation of the esophagus or surgery is required. In turn, in esophagitis of infectious origin, bactericidal or fungicidal treatment is appropriate.