How to relieve a burning sensation in the esophagus
Oct 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Haiming
Introduction
A burning sensation in the esophagus may occur with chronic gastritis. In such cases, antibiotics can be used under a doctor's guidance, along with gastric mucosal protectants. For peptic ulcers, proton pump inhibitors can be used to relieve symptoms. For reflux esophagitis, medications that inhibit gastric acid secretion may be used as recommended by a physician to alleviate symptoms.
The relief methods for a burning sensation in the esophagus depend on the underlying cause. Common causes include chronic gastritis, gastrointestinal ulcers, and reflux esophagitis.
1. Chronic Gastritis
If the burning sensation in the esophagus is caused by chronic gastritis resulting from long-term consumption of strong liquor, concentrated tea, or excessively cold or hot foods that damage the gastric mucosa, antibiotic medications may be used under medical guidance to control inflammation. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include amoxicillin and clarithromycin. These can be combined with gastric mucosal protectants such as aluminum hydroxide or colloidal bismuth pectin.
2. Gastrointestinal Ulcers
If gastrointestinal ulcers are caused by frequent intake of spicy or irritating foods or long-term smoking, which irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, proton pump inhibitors can be used to relieve symptoms. Examples include lansoprazole and omeprazole.
3. Reflux Esophagitis
If reflux esophagitis results from excessive consumption of acidic foods or from age-related weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter's contractile function, medications that suppress gastric acid secretion may be used under a doctor’s advice. Commonly used drugs include pantoprazole and omeprazole.
