Which severity level of reflux esophagitis is "abcd"?

Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Reflux esophagitis is divided into four grades: ABCD, with grade A being the least severe and grade D being the most severe. Grade D indicates that the esophageal mucosa shows damage and fusion, involving at least 75% of the esophageal circumference. The symptoms of reflux esophagitis mainly include reflux and a burning sensation in the stomach, and some patients may also experience heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. Reflux esophagitis can occur during nighttime sleep in some patients and is caused by the chemical irritation of sensory nerve endings beneath the esophageal epithelium due to acidic or alkaline reflux material.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Is reflux esophagitis related to nasal discharge reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and nasal discharge reflux are usually not directly related. GERD is caused by excessive gastric acid secretion due to chronic gastritis and gastric ulcers in patients, which refluxes into the esophagus and throat, causing reflux esophagitis. Nasal discharge reflux, on the other hand, is mainly related to chronic sinusitis in patients, both of which can cause inflammation and discomfort in the patient's throat. For patients with GERD, the main treatment involves controlling acid suppression through medication. Common medications include proton pump inhibitors and comprehensive gastric acid relaxants. Additionally, for patients experiencing nasal discharge reflux, diagnosis is primarily through nasal endoscopy and paranasal sinus CT scan. For patients with sinusitis, treatment usually requires medications and surgery to open the sinus passages to improve symptoms and achieve healing.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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What should I do if reflux esophagitis causes vomiting and choking?

Patients with reflux esophagitis who experience vomiting and choking is relatively rare. Once vomiting and choking occur, it is necessary for the patient to urgently lie on their side, quickly expel the contents of the stomach and mouth, and they may drink some water to keep the respiratory and digestive tracts clear. If the patient still experiences choking after these measures, it is recommended to urgently visit a hospital for treatment. The specific treatment plan will be determined by a doctor based on the situation. The main symptoms of reflux esophagitis include reflux and a burning sensation in the stomach, which are the most common and typical symptoms for patients.

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Written by Wang Hui Jie
Gastroenterology
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What are the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease?

The following are some symptoms: The most common and typical symptom is heartburn. It mainly manifests as a burning discomfort or pain behind the sternum and below the xiphoid process. This usually occurs about an hour after eating and may extend upward from the lower end of the sternum to the neck and between the shoulder blades, often accompanied by nausea. Another common symptom is acid reflux, which generally occurs more often on an empty stomach. Another symptom is chest pain, mainly caused by irritation of the esophageal mucosa leading to spasms. There is also difficulty swallowing, which is quite common; initially, it is often caused by a stress-induced spasm. In later stages, it is mostly due to the proliferation of fibrous tissue forming scars, leading to esophageal narrowing. Some less common symptoms include stomach bloating, pharyngitis, cough, asthma, and others.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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What is the treatment for reflux esophagitis?

The main symptoms of reflux esophagitis include upper abdominal pain, chest pain, belching, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting. By conducting an endoscopy, the diagnosis of reflux esophagitis can be confirmed if the mucous membrane of the esophagus shows signs of hyperemia, edema, erosion, and ulcers. Treatment mainly involves acid suppression and gastric protection, promoting motility, and mucosal repair, which generally takes six to eight weeks. Dietary adjustments are also important, focusing on a bland and easily digestible diet. It is recommended to avoid spicy, stimulating, fried, grilled, and baked foods, as well as reducing sweet foods. Consumables such as porridge, soup, or noodles, which are easier to digest, are advised.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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What medicine is taken for gastritis and reflux esophagitis?

Gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease are relatively common in clinical settings. Generally, medications that reduce acid production, protect the mucous membrane, and improve gastrointestinal motility can be chosen for treatment. Of course, dietary advice includes consuming clean, easily digestible foods, cultivating good living and eating habits, and avoiding overeating and binge drinking. Gastritis is more commonly seen clinically, with most patients exhibiting symptoms of abdominal pain and bloating. Esophagitis primarily presents with nausea, belching, and burning pain, leading most patients to seek treatment from a gastroenterologist. The fastest diagnosis primarily relies on gastroscopy, which can reveal congestion and edema of the esophageal and gastric mucosa, and even the formation of erosion and ulcers, ruling out diagnoses like esophageal or gastric cancer. Therefore, the treatment of gastritis and esophagitis mainly relies on medications, which are selected after a complete gastroscopy. The typical course of treatment is about four weeks. If symptoms can be controlled, the dosage can be gradually reduced to maintain the minimal effective amount. (The use of medications should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)