ESOPHAGITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Esophagitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation or irritation of the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach. The esophagus is responsible for carrying food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach for digestion. However, when the lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed, it can result in various symptoms and complications.
The most common cause of esophagitis is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. Other causes may include infections, certain medications, ingestion of corrosive substances, autoimmune disorders, and radiation therapy.
Symptoms of esophagitis can vary but commonly include heartburn, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, regurgitation of food or sour liquid, hoarseness, and a feeling of a lump in the throat. If left untreated, esophagitis may lead to complications such as esophageal ulcers, strictures (narrowing of the esophagus), and even an increased risk of esophageal cancer.
Treatment for esophagitis aims to relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. This may involve lifestyle changes such as avoiding trigger foods, quitting smoking, and losing weight if necessary. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids, and H2-receptor antagonists may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid production and promote healing of the esophagus. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required.
Common Misspellings for ESOPHAGITIS
Etymology of ESOPHAGITIS
The word "esophagitis" is derived from two Greek roots: "esophagus" and "-itis".
The term "esophagus" (also spelled oesophagus) originates from the Greek word "oisophagos", which means "gullet" or "throat". This Greek word is a combination of "oisein" (to carry) and "phagein" (to eat). The esophagus is a muscular tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.
The suffix "-itis" comes from the Greek word "itis", which means "inflammation". It is commonly used in medical terms to denote an inflammatory condition. Thus, "esophagitis" refers to inflammation of the esophagus, which can be caused by various factors such as acid reflux, infection, or certain medications.
Similar spelling words for ESOPHAGITIS
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