What Causes Burning Sensation In Esophogus?

Posted on Mon, 22 Sep 2014

Question: Having a burning in my esophogus now for a month. I dont feel acid coming up but it just feels like its burning.

I had a EGD today that was normal.

So wondering what it could be?

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (2 days later)

Brief Answer:
Answer given below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Burning sensation in the esophagus usually occurs due to gastroesophageal reflux disease.
In 70% of the cases the endoscopy will not show any lesion and will be normal. This is called NERD - Non Erosive Reflux Disease.

It can be confirmed by -
1. Taking medications like prilosec. Symptom relief with Prilosec is diagnostic.
2. 24 hours pH monitoring test

You can take a course of Prilosec for 4 weeks and see if there is any relief.
Try to avoid alcohol, smoking, coffee, citrus, chocolates, fatty food.
Avoid eating full stomach and eat multiple small meals.
Go to bed at least 2-3 hours after food.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (35 hours later)

I have taken prilosec for 5 weeks with no relief. That is why I had to go in for endoscopy.

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (13 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer given below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
If there is no relief with prilosec and lifestyle modifications, then further evaluation has to be done with 24 hours pH monitoring test.

You can discuss about this test with your gastroenterologist.
Regards,
Dr.R.K

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

Follow up: Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (10 hours later)

Did the doctor see my throat when the endoscopy? What if the bottom of my throat was inflamed would they have seen that?

Would h2 blockers be better than prilosec? I have never tried those.

Answered by Dr. Dr.P.Ratnakar Kini (37 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Answer given below

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Yes, they would have seen the throat also during the test.

No H2rA is not better than prilosec.

Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr.R.K.

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