Esophagitis: When the Esophagus Becomes Inflamed

Have you ever felt a burning sensation in your chest after eating, or felt like food was stuck in your throat? Don't take it lightly; it could be esophagitis .

Esophagitis is inflammation or ulceration of the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). The most common cause is GERD (acid reflux), but it can also be caused by bacterial infections, food allergies, or side effects of medications. If left untreated, the esophagus can narrow, become severely scarred, and even increase the risk of cancer.

Future Solutions: Getting to Know Regenerative Therapy

Until now, we may have only known about acid-reducing medications or strict diets. However, a new health technology called Regenerative Therapy has emerged .

While conventional medicine merely "relieves symptoms," regenerative therapy acts as a natural "booster ." This therapy harnesses the body's biological intelligence to repair damaged esophageal cells and replace them with healthy new tissue.

Types of Therapy Used:

  1. Stem Cells: "Smart" cells that can reduce severe inflammation and accelerate tissue healing.
  2. Secretome: Active substances produced by stem cells. It contains powerful healing molecules to soothe an overly sensitive immune system.
  3. Exosomes: Super tiny "couriers" that deliver healing signals directly to the injured area.
  4. Tissue Engineering: Such as placing a special "plaster" on the damaged area of the esophagus to help new cells grow.

What are the Benefits for Patients?

This therapy offers new hope, especially for those whose illness is chronic or long-term:

  • Heal Faster: Wounds in the esophagus close more quickly.
  • Prevents Narrowing: Avoids the risk of the esophagus contracting (which makes it difficult to swallow).
  • Minimal Side Effects: Because of its natural nature (regulating the body's own immune system), this therapy tends to be safe and the risk of rejection is very low.
  • Better Quality of Life: Patients do not need to continuously rely on long-term chemical drugs.

How does this work?

Don't worry, the procedure is minimally invasive (doesn't require major surgery) and usually doesn't require hospitalization:

  1. Initial Checkup: The doctor will ensure that you are fit through a blood test and endoscopy (looking at the contents of the esophagus with a small camera).
  2. Therapy Administration: Can be administered intravenously, or injected directly into the injured area using an endoscope for more targeted treatment.
  3. Regular Monitoring: After therapy, you only need regular check-ups to see how much your esophagus has improved.

Clinically Proven

Recent research (in 2020) demonstrated remarkable results. Patients with severe esophageal ulcers recovered significantly after undergoing this cell therapy. They avoided the risk of esophageal strictures, which are often very painful.

Our hospital, RS EMC Tangerang, has received international accreditation (JCI), which ensures that your digestive procedures are carried out to the highest safety and quality standards in the world.

Regenerative therapy is a smart way to encourage the body to heal itself naturally and completely.

EMC Tangerang Hospital offers superior services for digestive health, specifically gastrointestinal management. Our internists, including gastroenterology consultants, are ready to assist with the latest medical technology and safe, low-risk procedures. We are here not only as a medical team but also as a companion on your journey of recovery, from initial examination to full recovery.

Article written by dr. Apriliana Adhyaksari, Sp.PD, Subsp.GEH (K), M.Kes, FINASIM (Internal Medicine Specialist - Consultant Gastro Entero Hepatology EMC Hospital Alam Sutera & Tangerang).