ESOPHAGITIS:

DEFINITION: Esophagitis is an inflammation of the lower
esophagus due to stomach acid reflux.  SYMPTOMS: It causes
symptoms such as chest pain, heartburn, or food "sticking."
This is common in persons with a hiatal hernia.  Certain
foods, alcohol, and aspirin contribute to esophagitis. 
Persons with hiatal hernias are more prone to this problem. 
There is now supporting evidence that this problem may be
associated with a bacteria H. Pylori.

THERAPY: Treatment depends on the severity. Some of the
popular remedies are antacids, H-2 blockers, or
motility increasing medicines.  For some, Carafate
a membrane-protective drug, works very well.

Alcohol, aspirin, caffeine, tobacco, and
chocolate are some of the foods that are known
to cause heartburn, it may be best to eliminate these
from your diet.  Some find relief by elevating the
head end of their bed by around 2-4 inches so that
gravity will help with this problem.

If this problem is associated with H. pylori bacteria,
then a course of antibiotics will be required.
There is a test for H. pylori.

IF PROBLEMS: Call the doctor if you develop severe chest pain,
inability to swallow fluids, fever, or worsening symptoms.