You eat a big, high fat meal and pay for it with scorching heartburn. Esophagitis is a generic term for the inflammation and irritation of the food pipe or esophagus. The most common cause of this irritation is the reflux of stomach acid, which is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. Fortunately, one easy treatment for this stomach problem is the regulation of your diet. By avoiding certain foods and following certain guidelines, you can rid yourself of pain and discomfort.
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is can be painful, but there are ways to deal with it. It can be made worse by alcohol consumption, smoking, chest radiation therapy and certain medications. Some symptoms include a difficult time swallowing, a hoarse voice, a sore throat and heartburn. Sometimes infection can cause esophagitis, and antibiotics can be used as treatment for this. However, esophagitis is most commonly caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to Medline Plus.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is when the acid in the stomach washes up into the food tube or esophagus and causes irritation. If this happens enough, it can cause pain and esophagitis, eventually leading to damage of the esophagus. Hernia, pregnancy, cigarettes, medications, obesity and possibly alcohol are all causes of GERD. GERD can be treated with medications, but there are dietary mandates that can be followed to control the GERD and the esophagitis that results from it.
Foods to Avoid
In order to control GERD and esophagitis, it is necessary to eat a low fat diet. This is because, according to the McKinley Health Center GERD Diet, high fat foods put more pressure on the muscle at the bottom of the food tube and cause the acid to escape. High fat foods also stay in the stomach longer and can cause more reflux. The diet also recommends avoiding large meals, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, mint and tomato-based products. Carbonated drinks, citrus products, and spicy foods are also known to be irritants.
Other Considerations
In addition to avoiding certain foods and drinks, there are behaviors you should avoid as well. For instance, do not lay down for two to three hours after eating. You may want to raise the head of your bed five to six inches to keep your head above your heart. Merely using pillows may not be enough. You may need to use a brick under the headboard to raise the bed on an incline. This will help the gastric juices remain in your stomach and keep them from flowing into and irritating your esophagus. Do not exercise immediately after eating. Try to eat smaller meals, and try to lose some weight, if possible.
Member Comments