Kim Kardashian reveals esophagitis diagnosis

The SKIMS founder disclosed in the season 8 trailer for "The Kardashians" that she has esophagitis, a condition affecting the esophagus lining. Her family reacted emotionally to the news.

“I have something called esophagitis”

What esophagitis actually is

Esophagitis is swelling or irritation of the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. It's often caused by stomach acid flowing backward, a condition called GERD.

Symptoms and risk factors

Symptoms include coughing, painful swallowing, heartburn, hoarseness and sore throat. Risk factors include alcohol, smoking, obesity, large meals before lying down, and certain medications taken without enough water.

Treatment options are available

Treatment depends on the cause and can include acid-reducing medications, antibiotics or antivirals for infections, coating medications, and diet changes. Most cases respond well to treatment.

“Most of the time, the disorders that cause swelling and inflammation of the food pipe, respond to treatment”

The connection to Kim's father

Kim's father Robert Kardashian died from esophageal cancer in September 2003, just two months after his diagnosis. Esophageal cancer is different from esophagitis but can develop from untreated chronic acid reflux.

When acid reflux becomes serious

Years of untreated GERD can lead to Barrett esophagus, where stomach acid damages the esophagus lining and changes its cells. This condition may progress to esophageal cancer and requires surgery or procedures.

“Barrett esophagus may lead to cancer of the food pipe”