Some symptoms of esophagitis are:

• Difficult and/or painful swallowing.
• Heartburn – acid reflux.
• Mouth sores.
• A feeling of something of being stuck in the throat.
• Sour or bitter taste in the mouth from regurgitation of stomach contents.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Fast breathing.
• Chest pain.
• Blood in the stools.
• Increased salivation or drooling.

Ways to Decrease the Risk of Esophagitis

• Maintain a healthy weight – Body Mass Index Calculator.
• Avoiding smoking.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Eating a nutritious diet based on the food guide pyramid.
• Getting adequate rest.
• Practicing safer sex.
• Getting proper treatment for GERD.

Tests The Doctor May Perform:

• Direct visualization of the esophagus with a scope (endoscopy).
• Barium swallow – x-ray using special dye to be swallowed.
• Biopsy – pronounced – BY-op-see – the removal of cells or tissues for examination under a microscope.

Call your doctor if you have symptoms that suggest esophagitis.