Diseases and Conditions
Esophagitis
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Diagnosis
Treatment
Lifestyle and home remedies
Alternative medicine
Preparing for an appointment
Complications
Left untreated, esophagitis can lead to changes in the structure of the esophagus. Possible complications include:
- Scarring or narrowing (stricture) of the esophagus
- Tearing of the esophagus lining tissue from retching (if food gets stuck) or during endoscopy (due to inflammation)
- Barrett's esophagus, characterized by changes to the cells lining the esophagus, increasing your risk of esophageal cancer
