Risk Factors for Esophagitis and Possible Health Complications
Certain risk factors increases your chances of developing esophagitis, such as:
- Weakened immune system due to diabetes, cancer, leukemia [8], or lymphoma [9]
- Hiatal hernia, a condition where the stomach pushes through the opening in the diaphragm between the oesophagus and stomach
- Obesity
- Chemotherapy [10]
- Radiation therapy of the chest
- Chronic vomiting
- Surgery in the chest area
- Medication to prevent organ transplant rejection
- Immunosuppressive medications
- Anti-inflammatory medication and aspirin
- Alcohol and smoking
- A family history of allergies it esophagitis
Your chances of developing esophagitis is low if you have a healthy immune system.
If left untreated, esophagitis can lead to serious health complications related to the function and structure of the esophagus. Untreated esophagitis can lead to serious health complications related to the function and structure of the esophagus. Possible complications include:
- Barrett’s esophagus, this is a condition where there is damage to the lining of the esophagus, which can lead to a precancerous change in the tissue
- Narrowing if the esophagus that can lead to obstruction and problems swallowing
- Holes or ulcers in the esophagus/esophagus perforation