Esophagitis causes painful inflammation in the esophagus, often caused by acid reflux or allergies. A special diet of soft, non-spicy foods can alleviate symptoms, and allergy testing can help identify aggravating foods. Eating smaller portions and choosing soft foods can also reduce pain and irritation.
Esophagitis is a disorder that causes painful inflammation and constriction in the esophagus. The most common cause is acid reflux disease, although severe food allergies, throat injuries, or infections can also be responsible for the symptoms. After a doctor determines the underlying cause of the problem, he or she may suggest a special esophagitis diet that can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms and prevent future complications. An esophagitis diet usually consists of soft foods that do not contain spices and acids. If food allergies are responsible for your symptoms, your doctor might try an elimination diet to identify aggravating foods to avoid.
People who have severe heartburn that occurs frequently and causes a long-lasting sore throat may experience reflux esophagitis. In addition to taking medication, the patient may be instructed to make major changes in their eating habits. A common reflux esophagitis diet involves avoiding foods and drinks that seem to make heartburn worse, such as spicy dishes, alcohol, and citrus fruits. Certain ingredients are more irritating to some people than others, so establishing an effective diet plan can take several weeks of trial and error.
Allergy testing can reveal a person’s major food allergies and help doctors and dietitians come up with an appropriate diet for esophagitis. To avoid allergic reactions, a person needs to double check ingredient lists on manufactured food products and ask about ingredients when eating in restaurants. Once the symptoms of esophagitis improve, a doctor may suggest that certain foods be slowly introduced into the diet to see if they can be tolerated. Some people with chronic esophagitis need to maintain highly restrictive diets that require them to eat meals specially prepared by licensed nutritionists.
In addition to following a doctor’s orders for an esophagitis diet, a person can further reduce pain and irritation by eating smaller portions and choosing soft foods. Puddings, mashed potatoes, milkshakes, and other similar items are much easier to swallow than chunks of meat, nuts, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Soft foods are especially important during severe episodes of esophagitis to avoid causing additional and unnecessary damage to the throat.
Doctors and dietitians can explain which bland foods are best for maintaining a nutritious diet. A doctor may suggest taking liquid supplements to ensure that the patient receives enough important vitamins, nutrients, and proteins. Not all cases of esophagitis can be cured, but most people can effectively manage their symptoms for long periods of time by sticking to their recommended diet plans.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
