Erosive Esophagitis Treatment: What Works and What to Avoid

When erosive esophagitis, a severe form of esophageal inflammation caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Also known as grade C or D esophagitis, it means the lining of your esophagus is actively being damaged—sometimes with ulcers or bleeding. This isn’t just heartburn. It’s tissue damage that won’t heal on its own. Left untreated, it can lead to strictures, Barrett’s esophagus, or even increase cancer risk. The good news? It responds well to the right treatment plan.

Most cases tie back to GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, the chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus. But not all GERD turns into erosive esophagitis. It happens when the lower esophageal sphincter weakens, or when you’re exposed to acid for too long—often from late-night meals, obesity, smoking, or certain medications. That’s why treatment isn’t just about popping pills. It’s about fixing the root cause. Proton pump inhibitors, the strongest class of acid-reducing drugs, including omeprazole, esomeprazole, and pantoprazole are the first-line treatment. They work by shutting down acid production at the source, letting the lining heal over 4 to 8 weeks. If PPIs aren’t enough, doctors may add H2 blockers, like famotidine or ranitidine, which reduce acid in a different way and are often used for maintenance.

But meds alone won’t fix this. You need to change habits. Skip caffeine, chocolate, spicy food, and alcohol—they relax the sphincter and trigger reflux. Don’t lie down for at least three hours after eating. Elevate the head of your bed by 6 to 8 inches. Lose weight if you’re carrying extra pounds—even 10% can cut reflux episodes in half. Smoking? Quitting is non-negotiable. It’s not just about comfort—it’s about stopping the erosion before it goes deeper.

Some people try antacids or herbal remedies, but those won’t heal erosive damage. They might give quick relief, but they don’t stop the acid long enough for tissue repair. And don’t assume your symptoms are "just acid." If you’re having trouble swallowing, vomiting blood, or losing weight without trying, get checked now. Those are red flags.

The posts below give you real, practical comparisons: what works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes. You’ll find guides on how PPIs stack up against other drugs, how lifestyle changes actually make a difference, and what to do if your treatment stops working. No fluff. No hype. Just what you need to know to heal your esophagus and keep it healed.