The oesophagus is a long tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach. All the food that we eat, enters the stomach through the oesophagus or the gullet. In the case of GERD, the LES valves or the lower oesophageal sphincters, do not close properly, which causes stomach acid to wash back up the gullet tube. The continuous backwash of the stomach acid can cause problems like oesophagitis or inflammation of the oesophagus. If the problem persists, you will eventually require GERD laparoscopic surgery.
Let’s take a closer look at the problem of oesophagitis.
What Is Oesophagitis?
The inflammation of the oesophagus is known as oesophagitis. This condition can be painful and can cause difficulty swallowing and chest pain.
What Are The Implications of Leaving Oesophagitis Untreated?
If oesophagitis is left untreated, it can damage the tissue lining the wall of the oesophagus causing the following problems:
- Scarring of the oesophagus
- Narrowing of the oesophagus
- Unintended weight loss
- Dehydration
- Damage to the oesophagus so much so that it has difficulty functioning normally
One of the common causes of oesophagitis is the backwash of stomach acid, which can be treated if the patient opts for GERD laparoscopic surgery.
What Are The Symptoms of Oesophagitis?
The common symptoms of oesophagitis are as follows:
- Difficulty and painful swallowing
- Food impaction
- Heartburn
- Acid regurgitation
In children or babies, there may be irritability or problems with swallowing, chest pain or belly pain, and a failure to thrive.
How Serious Is Oesophagitis and What Does It Cause?
This condition can cause ulcers, oesophageal strictures, and intestinal metaplasia.
- Ulcers
The primary reason ulcers are a problem is because the hole formed in the lining can lead to septicemia.
- Scarring and Strictures
Scarring of the oesophagus due to oesophagitis can cause the narrowing of the gullet which in turn makes swallowing difficult.
- Intestinal Metaplasia
Eventually, if this problem is left untreated, it can cause intestinal metaplasia which is a precursor to cancer of the oesophagus.
When Do You Need GERD Laparoscopic Surgery If You Have Oesophagitis?
Firstly, GERD is the most common cause of oesophagitis, but not the only cause. There can be other causes of GERD such as autoimmune diseases and taking specific medication. Your doctor should take the last call on GERD surgery if the problem isn’t brought under control with the right medication.
Wrapping Up
See Dr Purnendu Bhowmik for GERD laparoscopic surgery. He can help you with a proper diagnostic process and decide if you require surgery as a solution for the oesophagitis problem. Reach out to him for a consultation.
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