Suggest Remedy For Inflammation Of The Esophagus

Posted on Wed, 25 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 25 Feb 2015 Answered on

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : About 6 minths ago I had an endoscopy done. I had inflammation of esophagus. I was put on omeprazole 40mg and ranitidine 300mg. I had the endoscopy done because I was getting a pain on my right side of chest. My pain is gone, but when I go off the omeprazole, I get heartburn off and on. I still take the ranitidine. Why am i still getting heartburn off and on and a heating feeling inside my chest. Ekg and everything is fine. My GI dr said that the omeprazole would have cleared the esophagitis. Would like your opinion. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Needs modifications

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

I read your question and I understand your concern. Omeprazole and ranitidine are antacids and they help in esophagitis and reflux symptoms. But what is more important is to get rid of the underlying cause which is mostly acid reflux in such cases.

So modifications in diet and lifestyle are needed here. Avoid beverages, beer, alcohol, stimulants, coffee or tea in excess, sweets specially chocolate.

Eat small frequent meals instead of large few ones. Use fiber and avoid spices etc. Plenty of fluids are advised. Don't lie down after meals for at least 3 hours. Keep head side of the bed elevated for at least 8 inches. I am sure you will feel the difference. Only 20 percent people need antacids and 80 percent get recovered with mere diet and lifestyle modifications.

I hope it helps. Take good care of yourself and don't forget to close the discussion please.

Regards XXXXXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (1 hour later)

Thanks. I have been doing most of the things you have mentioned. Probably the only thing I dont do is having bed elevated 8 inches. How long is it safe to take the omeprazole. That is the only thjng that seems to help. I have prescription , but they do have over the counter in case I run out. when I take it, I am fine. Thanks in advance

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (2 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
8 weeks average

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for asking

Usually four to eight weeks is normal advised time. But even after that you may take them as per your needs but only need basis not regularly.

If the issue persists then try surgical options like fundoplications or esophageal magnetic rings to prevent reflux. Losing weight is the ultimate need here.

I hope it helps.
Take care
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (17 minutes later)

Thanks again! I think I will stay with the omeprazole as needed. Probably a few days a week. I really dont want surgery at my age if I really dont have to. The only part that bothers me intaking it is that i read it may be bad for bones. I am not over weight. 5ft 6in. 139 lbs. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
continue conservative

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back to me
Stick to omeprazole. Modify diet and lifestyle. No worries for the bone those are age related and just needs conservative management. Surgery is not a good idea for sure at this age.

Stay in touch with your gastroenterologist and let them decide what is best for you.

I hope it helps.
Take care.
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (3 hours later)

thanks for your help. I am 65 years old and do have border line osteoporosis. u do take calcium. is it still safe for me to take omeprazole? I would think the calcium would help. omeprazole seems to help me. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Shafi Ullah Khan (28 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No worries take Omeprazole

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back to me
Omeprazole is not an absolute contraindication and you may use it for the problem. No worries just keep an eye on your bone mineral density and osteoporosis status to prevent any fracture.
I hope it helps.
Take care
Khan

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar