Esophagus burnt

A burnt oesophagus is a rare clinical picture, since the shying away from too hot food is a reflex that is already found in children. Therefore, a bite that is too hot or a liquid that is too hot is usually not put into the mouth at all.However, if this is still the case and a burnt oesophagus occurs, the affected person typically feels a strong burning sensation in the area of the chest cavity and difficulty swallowing. The burnt areas can swell and thus lead to breathing difficulties.

Fever can also occur. The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of an examination with a lamp and mirror, but endoscopy and X-rays can also help. It is also important to rule out a burn.

A burnt esophagus is treated by cleaning it. The throat and esophagus are rinsed through a probe. In addition, antibiotics and steroids are administered as a precaution to prevent inflammation and swelling. Patients should go for regular follow-up examinations after severe burns of the esophagus, as the tissue often scars and can lead to difficulty swallowing, breathing difficulties or esophageal cancer.

Esophagus burns due to heartburn

When the esophagus burns, it is also called heartburn. This describes the typical symptoms: a burning sensation that often extends from the stomach to the throat. Acidic belching can also occur.

Normally, a sphincter muscle at the entrance to the stomach prevents the stomach acid from entering the esophagus. This mechanism does not work properly in people with these symptoms. The causes are numerous, including obesity, constricting clothing, a too rich or fatty meal, stress or even a congenital muscle disorder.

Since the mucous membrane lining the esophagus should not actually have any contact with the stomach acid, it has no protective mechanism against this acid. In order to prevent heartburn, overweight should be reduced and coffee, alcohol, nicotine and hot spices should be avoided. Especially in the evening, no rich, high-fat meals should be eaten, and it may also be advisable to sleep with your head held high.