Drug-induced injury
Many medications, such as antibiotics and
potassium preparations, are potentially damaging to the oesophagus as tablets
may lie in the oesophagus for a long time, especially if taken without an
adequate drink. Acute injury presents with dysphagia and odynophagia which may
be very severe. The inflammation usually resolves within 2—3 weeks and no
specific treatment is required apart from appropriate nutritional support. A
stricture may follow the acute injury.