The esophagus (also spelled oesophagus) is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. The esophagus is also called gullet. It carries food, liquids, and saliva from the mouth to the stomach. The esophagus is part of the digestive tract.

Causes of Esophagitis

Erosive esophagitis is inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed because of an infection or something that has irritated the lining. It is usually caused by gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux is the backflow of acid and food particles that seep out of the stomach and up into the esophagus.

A group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used to treat GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease – also know as GERD or heartburn, erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production. Well known PPI’s are:

• Nexium – brand name
  Esomeprazole – chemical name
• Prilosec – brand name
  Omeprazole – chemical name
• Prevacid – brand name
  Lansoprazole – chemical name
• Protonix – brand name
  Pantoprazole – chemical name
• Aciphex – brand name
  Rabeprazole – chemical name

Almost everyone experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time, commonly known as “heartburn” or acid indigestion. Frequent heartburn (episodes occurring from several times a week to several times a day) may be associated with a more severe condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

In some people, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause Erosive Esophagitis. Erosive Esophagitis can occasionally cause ulcers. Esophageal damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may lead to even more serious complications. If left untreated, esophagitis can cause severe discomfort, swallowing difficulty to the extent of causing malnutrition or dehydration, and eventual scarring and narrowing of the esophagus. This scarring can lead to a esophageal stricture and food or medications may not be able to pass through to the stomach.

Rarely, a condition called Barrett’s Esophagus, could lead to cancer of the esophagus. Barrett’s Esophagus is a condition in which the cells lining the lower part of the esophagus have changed or been replaced with abnormal cells.