Esophagitis examination methods

Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

Updated on September 23, 2024

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Currently, for the examination of esophagitis in clinical practice, imaging studies are primarily used, including barium swallow tests and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Barium swallow tests are more commonly used in primary care hospitals, while upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is more frequently used in county-level and higher hospitals. Under barium swallow exam, it is possible to observe the disordered mucosal folds of the damaged esophagus, sometimes small niches and narrowing of the esophageal lumen can be seen. Under endoscopy, inflammatory changes in the esophageal mucosa can be detected.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

41sec

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What should you avoid eating if you have esophagitis?

There are many foods that should be avoided with esophagitis, as any food that irritates the esophagus and worsens the condition should be avoided. First are dry, hard, cold, overly hot, or gas-producing foods, such as nuts, walnuts, as well as milk, soy milk, bread, and other foods that produce a lot of gas. Also, avoid smoking, alcohol, strong tea, coffee, and other irritating foods. Focus on consuming nutritious and easily digestible foods, maintain a regular eating schedule, and pay attention to food hygiene, ensuring meals are timely and in proper amounts.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

46sec

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Does esophagitis cause constipation?

Esophagitis generally does not cause constipation. However, if a person has esophagitis and their gastrointestinal motility is reduced, constipation may occur. The main symptoms of esophagitis include feeling like there is a foreign object when swallowing, pain when swallowing, and pain behind the sternum. The diet for esophagitis generally consists of semi-liquid or liquid food. It is advisable to eat more vegetables and soft, easily digestible foods, and to avoid raw, cold, and strongly irritant foods. Additionally, it is important to hydrate regularly and choose antibiotics appropriately for treatment. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Jiang Guo Ming

Gastroenterology

50sec

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What are the symptoms of esophagitis?

The causes of reflux esophagitis are varied, including dysfunction of the lower esophageal sphincter, esophageal hiatal hernia, gastric emptying disorders, psychological factors, and external stimuli such as medications or alcohol. Often, patients also exhibit insufficient gastric motility and excessive stomach acid. Common symptoms include upper abdominal bloating, belching, heartburn, acid regurgitation, a burning sensation or pain behind the sternum, and sometimes chest pain during eating. Some patients may experience irritative dry cough, which is often more pronounced at night or when lying down, but it tends to ease when standing up due to the irritation caused by acid reflux.

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

38sec

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Can esophagitis cause coughing?

Esophagitis generally does not cause coughing, as coughing is a symptom of respiratory diseases. Esophagitis mostly causes symptoms of the digestive system, such as heartburn, particularly when eating food, accompanied by painful swallowing, and pain behind the sternum. Severe esophagitis can lead to the narrowing of the esophageal lumen, difficulty swallowing, and may also present with vomiting. Esophagitis can also cause bleeding; bleeding of the mucous membranes can lead to vomiting blood or black stools. Recurrent esophagitis causes a decrease in appetite and impairs absorptive functions, leading to weight loss.

home-news-image

Written by Ren Zheng Xin

Gastroenterology

39sec

home-news-image

Esophagitis examination methods

Currently, for the examination of esophagitis in clinical practice, imaging studies are primarily used, including barium swallow tests and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Barium swallow tests are more commonly used in primary care hospitals, while upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is more frequently used in county-level and higher hospitals. Under barium swallow exam, it is possible to observe the disordered mucosal folds of the damaged esophagus, sometimes small niches and narrowing of the esophageal lumen can be seen. Under endoscopy, inflammatory changes in the esophageal mucosa can be detected.