Esophagitis natural history, complications and prognosis
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Natural History
Natural History
- The symptoms of esophagitis include heart burn, regurgitation, and dysphagia.
- If left untreated, esophagitis will develop to esophageal stricture which occurs in around 20% of the patients with GERD.[1]
- Esophageal stricture occur due to excessive acid in the lower of the esophagus which lead to scar formation. This scar causes narrowing of the esophagus and lead to difficulties in swallowing.
Prognosis
- The majority of people respond to nonsurgical measures, with lifestyle changes and medications. However, many patients need to continue to take drugs to control their symptoms.
Complications
If untreated, esophagitis may cause severe discomfort, and eventual scarring (stricture) of the esophagus. This can cause difficulty swallowing food or medications.
A condition called Barrett's esophagus can develop after years of gastroesophageal reflux. Rarely, Barrett's esophagus may lead to cancer of the esophagus.
Prognosis
The disorders that cause esophagitis usually respond to treatment.