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He is one of the best gastroenterology doctors I have ever visited. Took my uncle for stomach pain, the doctor did endoscopy & colonoscopy, diagnosed the problem as large intestine cancer, the doctor asked a...
Uma V
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The doctor is extremely professional and polite. He explains the problem patiently and does not prescribe unnecessary medication. He gives priority to the patient's well-being over everything. I Will definitely recommend him
Chandrasekhar Sriramula
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I have referred/recommended a couple of my relatives and friends to this Dr (Dr. Srujan Kumar Dasyam). I say that the diagnosis and treatment are good and also Dr listens patiently in understanding the patient's...
Apoorva Reddy Panyala
Table Of Contents
- What are Esophageal ulcers?
- What causes Esophageal ulcers?
- What are the Symptoms of Esophageal ulcers?
- How are Esophageal ulcers Diagnosed?
- What are the Complications of Esophageal ulcers?
- What is the Treatment for Esophageal ulcers?
What are Esophageal Ulcers?
An esophageal ulcer is a painful ulcer located on the esophageal lining at the junction of the stomach and esophagus.
What Causes Esophageal Ulcers?
Esophageal ulcers are caused by a variety of factors:
- H. Pylori infection: Helicobacter pylori is the most common bacteria that cause esophageal ulcers. This renders the esophagus more vulnerable to stomach acid injury.
- GERD: Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. When the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle that tightens to prevent food from going back up into the esophagus) is weakened or injured, it fails to close correctly, which results in the injury of the esophageal lining leading to ulcers.
- Excessive smoking
- Regular alcohol consumption
- Frequent use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and paracetamol
- Immunocompromised patients with HIV, candidiasis, Herpes simplex, cytomegalovirus
What are the Symptoms of Esophageal Ulcers?
Characteristic symptoms of esophageal ulcer include:
- Heartburn and chest pain
- Acid reflux
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Bloating
- Vomiting
- Insufficient appetite
- Swallowing discomfort
- Coughing
- Sour taste
How are Esophageal ulcers Diagnosed?
Tests and procedures include:
- X-Ray with Barium swallow: Barium solution is ingested to coat the lining of the esophagus followed by an X-Ray to check for any changes in esophagus.
- Endoscopy: A flexible, lighted tube is inserted through the mouth to view the gastrointestinal tract.
- Biopsy: A small piece of the suspicious tissue is taken to study under the microscope to view the cellular changes, if any. It can be done along with endoscopy.
- Blood tests: Sometimes, infections such as HSV-1 and CMV cause infection in the esophagus.
What are the Complications of Esophageal Ulcers?
- Bleeding
- Perforation in the esophagus
- Narrowing of the esophagus
- Scarring of the esophagus
What is the Treatment for Esophageal Ulcers?
The treatment regimen for esophageal ulcers is driven by the cause.
- If GERD is the cause, proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may be prescribed depending on the severity of your symptoms. PPIs include omeprazole and esomeprazole.
- If NSAIDs are the cause, histamine-2 receptor blockers can be used.
- In case of viral and fungal infection, antiviral and anti fungal medications are indicated.
Along with medications, dietary changes are also advised:
A high-fibre diet is recommended for people who have an esophageal ulcer. The meals listed below are gentle on the digestive system and may even aid in healing:
- Legumes
- Oats
- Non-citrus and high potassium fruits like apples and bananas
- Fish
- Lean protein
- Green leafy vegetables like broccoli and spinach
It’s not only about avoiding trigger foods when it comes to effective healing; it’s also about making certain crucial lifestyle modifications such as:
- Taking small portions of meal throughout the day
- Avoid Abrasive meals, rough meats, or firm bread crust
- Taking moistened solid foods at meals
- Avoiding caffeine intake
