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Esophagitis
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A group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), esomeprazole (Nexium), omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and pantoprazole (Protonix), are used to treat GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease (GERD or heartburn), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.
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.
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. 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 can develop, which can lead to cancer of the esophagus.
Other causes and risk factors of Erosive Esophagitis include:
- Fungi or yeast (especially Candida infections)
- Cytomegalovirus (a common virus in the herpes family)
- Herpes simplex diseases and conditions that weaken the immune system, such as HIV
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Immunodeficiency disorders
- Chemotherapy
- Chronic (lasting a long time) steroid use or malnutrition
- Chemicals that are swallowed
- Pills that become stuck in the esophagus
- Medications and supplements such as nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, alendronate, doxycycline, iron, and potassium
Page 1 Esophagitis
Page 2 Esophagitis
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