The difference between gastritis with acid reflux and reflux esophagitis
Oct 08, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
The difference between gastritis with acid reflux and reflux esophagitis lies in the following: the former is caused by increased gastric acid secretion due to gastritis, while the latter results from relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing gastric contents to flow back into the esophagus. The lesion site in gastritis with acid reflux is in the stomach, whereas in reflux esophagitis it is in the esophagus. Gastritis with acid reflux typically presents symptoms such as acid regurgitation and heartburn. Reflux esophagitis may manifest as a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, coughing, and similar symptoms.
Gastritis with acid reflux and reflux esophagitis differ in terms of causes, affected areas, and symptoms.
1. Different Causes
Gastritis-related acid reflux usually occurs when gastritis leads to increased gastric acid secretion, resulting in acid regurgitation. Reflux esophagitis may be caused by relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach contents and gastric acid to flow back into the esophagus.
2. Different Affected Areas
The pathological site of gastritis with acid reflux is in the stomach, whereas the lesion in reflux esophagitis typically occurs in the esophagus.
3. Different Symptoms
Gastritis with acid reflux mainly presents with symptoms such as acid regurgitation, heartburn, and associated discomfort including upper abdominal pain and chest pain. Reflux esophagitis primarily manifests as a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, chronic pharyngitis, coughing, and similar discomforts.
When patients experience the above symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation for proper diagnosis. After identifying the specific cause, appropriate medications should be selected under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, it is important to avoid consuming irritating foods in daily diet.
