Esophageal ulcers, caused by GERD, anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking, herpes, and human papillomavirus, can cause pain, difficulty swallowing, and recurring problems. Diagnosis is done through X-rays and endoscopes. Treatment includes medications, diet changes, and surgery. Complications include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions.
An ulcer of the esophagus is an open sore that forms on the lining of the esophagus, the tube that runs from the throat to the stomach. Some people who have an esophageal ulcer experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or chest pain. The most common causes are gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anti-inflammatory drugs, smoking, herpes and human papillomavirus.
Patients with an esophageal ulcer often have recurring problems. Over time, these ulcers can cause the esophagus to narrow, causing it to be painful and difficult to swallow. Barrett’s esophagus can develop in patients who have recurring ulcers in the esophagus caused by GERD. Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus changes, causing chest pain, heartburn, vomiting blood, and difficulty swallowing.
Esophageal ulcers are usually diagnosed using X-rays after the patient drinks a barium solution which allows the doctor to clearly see the outline of the digestive tract. Endoscopes, flexible tubes with a camera and light, can also be inserted down the throat to look for ulcers. Once a patient is diagnosed, a doctor can check for GERD. Patients with GERD usually need to take medications and control their diet to relieve symptoms.
Citrus juices, colas, coffee, and alcohol can cause the stomach to produce more acid, increasing pain and other symptoms of ulcers in the esophagus. Tomato products, onions, garlic, and vinegar-containing dressings should also be avoided. Smoking can irritate an ulcer and increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer.
Patients with an esophageal ulcer often experience increased pain and heartburn before bedtime. Taking an over-the-counter antacid can help relieve these symptoms, making it easier for patients to sleep. Prescription proton pump inhibitors can also help by reducing the amount of acid your stomach makes, making it less likely for acid to reach your esophagus.
Esophageal ulcers typically take a long time to heal. Most patients need to take prescription medications to reduce acid production for 12 to 12 weeks to allow the esophagus to repair. Even a small amount of acid that builds up in the esophagus can delay the healing process and cause recurring ulcers.
Patients who experience recurring ulcers in the esophagus may need surgery to correct the problem. Surgery is usually a last resort for people who are unable to effectively treat ulcer symptoms with medications and lifestyle changes. Some patients undergoing surgery to repair or remove the esophagus experience complications including infection, bleeding, and a reaction to anesthesia.
Surgeons can perform an esophagectomy, which means they remove the damaged part of the esophagus and attach the remaining part to the stomach. Damaged esophageal cells can be removed with an endoscope and surgical tools. An inflatable balloon that burns the damaged tissue so the esophagus can heal may also be used.
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