Infectious esophagitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation and irritation of the esophagus lining, often caused by an infection from fungi, yeast, a virus, or bacteria. This article provides comprehensive insights into its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.

Key points about infectious esophagitis include its main symptoms: chest pain (behind the breastbone) or throat pain, which can be burning, heavy, or sharp. This pain may worsen after meals or when lying flat if acid reflux is a contributing factor. The pain from esophagitis can be constant or intermittent.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) represents a specific form of the condition, often related to allergic reactions to food. It’s commonly experienced by adolescents and adults as difficulty swallowing, with food sometimes feeling like it’s moving slowly through the esophagus or even getting stuck.

Yeast infections, another cause of esophagitis, can occur when the skin is damaged or in warm, humid conditions. Risk factors include a weakened immune system, the use of antibiotics that disrupt normal bacterial balance, and environmental factors. Symptoms can be treated effectively with creams, suppositories, or mouthwash.

In terms of self-diagnosis and treatment, especially in the case of yeast infections, it’s advisable to seek professional medical advice for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans.

For more detailed information, visit the following resources:

University of Rochester Medical Center
Harvard Health
A.T. Still University
Harvard Health on Eosinophilic Esophagitis
University of Rochester Medical Center on Candidiasis
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
University of Rochester Medical Center on Candidiasis in Children
Harvard Health