The esophagus is a tube composed of a mucosal lining, and longitudinal and circular smooth muscle fibers.

[1] Esophagitis can be asymptomatic; or can cause epigastric and/or substernal burning pain, especially when lying down or straining; and can make swallowing difficult (dysphagia).

The most common cause of esophagitis is the reverse flow of acid from the stomach into the lower esophagus: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

[2] The symptoms of esophagitis include:[2] If the disease remains untreated, it can cause scarring and discomfort in the esophagus.

GERD is the most common cause of esophagitis because of the backflow of acid from the stomach, which can irritate the lining of the esophagus.

If the sphincter is not sufficiently tight, it may allow acid to enter the esophagus, causing inflammation of one or more layers.

Esophagitis may also occur if an infection is present, which may be due to bacteria, viruses, or fungi; or by diseases that affect the immune system.

[4] Irritation can be caused by GERD, vomiting, surgery, medications, hernias, and radiation injury.

The barium makes the organs more visible and can detect if there is any narrowing, inflammation, or other abnormalities that can be causing the disease.

Some lifestyle indicators for this disease include stress, unhealthy eating, smoking, drinking, family history, allergies, and immunodeficiency.

Types include: Fungal Viral Drug-induced esophagitis Damage to the esophagus due to medications.

This occasionally occurs through occupational exposure (via breathing of fumes that mix into the saliva which is then swallowed) or through pica.

To prevent reflux esophagitis, avoid acidic foods, caffeine, eating before going to bed, alcohol, fatty meals, and smoking.

Some prescription medications to treat reflux esophagitis include higher dose H-2 receptor blockers, proton pump inhibitors, and prokinetics, which help with the emptying of the stomach.