How Can Recurrent Bouts Of Dysphagia And Esophagitis Be Treated?

Posted on Tue, 24 Apr 2018

Question: I am on my second "bout" of dysphagia caused by esophagitis. Each time it takes 3-4 months to heal, before I can eat normally again. I am on Nexium 40 mgs daily and take 300 mgs of Ranitidine nightly. This will heal it again. But until then-this is stressful.
I am able to eat pureed foods (with some belching-and that "stuck" feeling). Liquids are not a problem. I am not in any pain otherwise regarding this.
I am having another endoscopy next week-since I need to lift the anxiety this is causing. By knowing that this is GERD, brought on once again by antibiotics and Advil, I can handle this better. My gastroenterologist feels it's another bad "attack". I agree, but need to know for sure. I'm just a little anxiety filled at the moment. It will pass. Are patients put on a PPI long term? I don't want to go through this again. Thank you.....

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Many patients require PPI long term.Prevention is best for your case .

Detailed Answer:
Hello dear

Warm welcome to Healthcaremagic.com
I have evaluated your query thoroughly .

* This is due to reflux of stomach acid giving recurrent bouts of dysphagia and
oesophagitis .

* Guidelines for you at present

- Many patients require long term PPI depending upon the clinical need ,
there is no harm in it .
- Prevention is best for you with basic life style modifications , dietary
precautions .

Welcome for any further assistance .

Wishing you fine health ahead .
Regards .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (1 hour later)

I am wondering if I may have another yeast infection due to the two rounds of antibiotics/Prednisone in late July? Is it possible to have an infection last that long, and harm the esophagus without treatment of the infection? This happened two years ago as well. If so, would I need Diflucan again? I am just wondering why this seems to be taking so long-although when I look back.....it has always taken a few months to heal. I am getting impatient. Will an endoscopy be able to diagnose a yeast infection?

Answered by Dr. Bhagyesh V. Patel (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
follow up .

Detailed Answer:
Welcome for the follow up .

* Antibiotics / Prednisone in July may be responsible via decreased level of the
immunity of the body , helping current infection flare up .

* Diflucan need has to be decided by the clinical examination , co relation with
the endoscopy findings .

* Many things in body take time to heal , and this is the fine mucosal pattern of
the esophagus definitely needs time .

* Endoscopy is best tool for direct vision under the high resolution camera
& doctor can take a deep swab from the doubtful inflammed mucosa for
the pathological confirmation of the yeast infection .

Hope this will clear your doubt .

I request from my side to remain calm , panic will worsen your recovery .

Gargles with salted lukewarm water added peppermint oil 3 times a day will help.

Welcome for any further assistance .
Regards dear take care .

Note: Revert back with your health reports to get further guidance on your gastric problems. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar