Esophageal Burns: Recovery Time and When to Seek Medical Help

Esophageal burn

Hello doctor, two days ago I vomited over ten times after drinking alcohol.
The next day I experienced esophageal burns, making it difficult to swallow saliva and drink water, and I am unable to speak.
Do I need to undergo an endoscopy, or will I recover on my own? How long will it take to recover? Thank you.

Mandy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/29

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

If there is no improvement after one week, it is recommended to undergo an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Reply Date: 2019/04/29

More Info

Esophageal burns, particularly those resulting from excessive vomiting or the ingestion of caustic substances, can lead to significant discomfort and complications. In your case, it seems that the burns were likely caused by the repeated vomiting after alcohol consumption, which can irritate and damage the esophagus.
Recovery from esophageal burns can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury. Generally, mild burns may heal within a few days to a week, while more severe injuries could take several weeks or even longer. Symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, pain, and the sensation of something stuck in the throat are common and can persist during the healing process.
In your situation, since you are experiencing significant difficulty swallowing, drinking water, and speaking, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A gastroenterologist may recommend an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), commonly known as an upper endoscopy, to assess the extent of the damage to your esophagus. This procedure allows the doctor to visualize the esophagus and determine if there are any complications, such as strictures (narrowing of the esophagus) or severe inflammation that may require intervention.

If you do not seek medical help and the symptoms persist for more than a week, it could lead to further complications, including esophageal strictures, which may require surgical intervention or dilation procedures. Additionally, untreated esophageal burns can lead to chronic pain, difficulty eating, and even nutritional deficiencies if you are unable to maintain adequate oral intake.

In terms of recovery, it is crucial to follow a diet that is gentle on the esophagus. Initially, this may include liquids and soft foods that are easy to swallow. Gradually, as your symptoms improve, you can reintroduce more solid foods. Staying hydrated is essential, but if swallowing liquids is painful or difficult, you might need to consider alternative methods of hydration, such as intravenous fluids, until you can safely consume fluids orally.

Moreover, it is important to monitor for any signs of worsening symptoms, such as increased pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, which could indicate a more serious complication. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while some esophageal burns may heal on their own, the severity of your symptoms suggests that you should seek medical evaluation. An upper endoscopy may be necessary to assess the damage and guide appropriate treatment. Recovery can take time, and it is essential to follow medical advice regarding diet and symptom management to ensure a smooth recovery process.

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