What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Symptoms)

• RE (Reflux Esophagitis)
• Reflux Oesophagitis

What is Reflux Esophagitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Esophagitis is described as an inflammation of the esophagus. The esophagus is a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach; it forms a part of the upper gastrointestinal tract and is also known as the ‘food-pipe’
• Reflux Esophagitis (RE) is esophageal inflammation occurring from the backflow of acidic stomach contents upwards into the esophagus, commonly due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Reflux Esophagitis is the most common form of esophagitis. All individuals regardless of race, gender, and age groups are vulnerable to developing the condition
• The signs and symptoms of Reflux Esophagitis may include pain in the throat, difficulty in swallowing, and redness in the throat. The condition may be diagnosed via certain procedures such as a barium swallow test, endoscopy, and/or a tissue biopsy
• A treatment of Reflux Esophagitis typically involves addressing the underlying cause of the condition i.e., undertaking a treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. The prognosis of the condition is usually good with adequate treatment

Who gets Reflux Esophagitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Individuals of any age and gender are prone to Reflux Esophagitis; gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition that may affect both children and adults
• The condition is seen worldwide among all racial and ethnic groups
• However, ethnic groups with diets and food groups that are spicy or high in citrus content are at a greater risk for developing acid reflux and consequently, Reflux Esophagitis

What are the Risk Factors for Reflux Esophagitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Reflux Esophagitis include:

• It is more common in individuals with a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Pregnant women and obese individuals are at a higher risk for GERD, and therefore, Reflux Esophagitis
• Regularly consuming foods that cause acid reflux can also place an individual at risk for developing esophagitis. These include:
  • Caffeine, caffeinated products
  • Chocolates
  • Spicy foods
  • Mint-flavored foods
  • Citrus fruits and tomatoes 
  • Foods with garlic and onion
• Eating meals within 2-3 hours prior to going to bed is known to increase the possibility of Reflux Esophagitis, as this can lead to acid reflux

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Reflux Esophagitis? (Etiology)

• The cause of Reflux Esophagitis is a dysfunction of the valve situated near the lower end of the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, which results in the stomach contents to reflux (flow back) into the esophagus
• The constant backflow of acid causes chronic inflammation that results in damage to the esophagus leading to Reflux Esophagitis. The most common cause of this condition is gastroesophageal reflux disease

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Reflux Esophagitis?

The signs and symptoms of Reflux Esophagitis may include:

• Pain in the throat
• Painful swallowing
• Chest pain/heartburn 
• Acid reflux
• Difficulties eating or swallowing
• Redness at the back of the throat (as seen on an endoscopy)

How is Reflux Esophagitis Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Reflux Esophagitis may involve the following:

• Detailed family history and complete physical examination
• Assessment of the presenting signs and symptoms
• Barium swallow test: A liquid with barium is swallowed that coats the esophagus lining; this allows X-rays of the esophagus to be taken 
• Upper GI endoscopy: An endoscope (tube with a camera) is passed through the mouth into the esophagus to view the region. Tissue samples for a biopsy may be collected, if required
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy of the affected region is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Reflux Esophagitis?

• The possible complications of Reflux Esophagitis include long-term injuries that can cause the esophagus to change structurally resulting in chronic swallowing and breathing difficulties
• Prolonged and repeated injury to the esophagus can also increase one’s risk for developing esophageal cancer

How is Reflux Esophagitis Treated?

• The main treatment measure for Reflux Esophagitis is undertaking appropriate treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Prescription (anti-acid) medications are available, which may be taken to reduce the effects of acid on the esophageal lining, such as proton pumps inhibitors
• In some cases, a surgery, known as fundoplication, can also be undertaken to help stop gastric reflux

How can Reflux Esophagitis be Prevented?

The preventative measures for Reflux Esophagitis may include:

• Undertaking prompt treatment of any associated/underlying conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Foods that cause heartburn or acid reflux should be avoided to limit the damage to the esophagus
• Any activity, such as exercising immediately (within an hour) of eating a meal or sleeping immediately after a meal, should be avoided
• Staying healthy through regular exercises, walking, and proper diet is important, especially in those who are overweight or obese

What is the Prognosis of Reflux Esophagitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

In general, the prognosis of Reflux Esophagitis is good with suitable treatment.

• A full recovery can be ensured through proper medication and bringing about suitable dietary changes, as needed
• Rarely, a small number of individuals with esophagitis are known to develop esophageal cancer. In such cases, the overall prognosis depends on several factors, but chiefly on the stage of the cancer

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Reflux Esophagitis:

The following article link is a helpful resource for other Digestive Health conditions:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/digestive-center/