Reflux esophagitis is an inflammatory esophageal lesion caused by the reflux of gastric and duodenal contents into the esophagus. The endoscopic manifestation is a breakdown of the esophageal mucosa, i.e. esophageal erosion and/or esophageal ulcer. About 40% of patients with GERD present with reflux esophagitis. Reflux esophagitis can occur in people of any age, with the incidence increasing with age in adults. A burning sensation or pain behind the sternum A burning sensation or pain behind the sternum is the main symptom of the disease. The symptoms occur about one hour after eating and can be triggered by semi-recumbency, forward bending of the torso or strenuous exercise, and can disappear after taking acid, while overheated and acidic food can aggravate it. In people with acid deficiency, the burning sensation is mainly caused by bile reflux, and the effect of acid administration is significant. The severity of the burning sensation does not necessarily correspond to the severity of the lesion. In severe esophagitis, especially in scar formation, there may be no or only a mild burning sensation. Acid reflux Acidic fluid or food reflux from the stomach or esophagus into the pharynx or mouth after every meal, when lying in forward bending or when sleeping in bed at night. This symptom mostly appears before the onset of burning sensation or burning pain behind the sternum. Difficulty in swallowing Initially, intermittent difficulty in swallowing can often occur due to secondary esophageal spasm caused by esophagitis. In the later stage, due to the narrowing of the esophageal scar formation, the burning sensation and burning pain gradually decreases and is replaced by permanent dysphagia, which can cause blockage or pain when eating solid food. Bleeding and anemia In severe esophagitis, bleeding can occur due to esophageal mucosal erosion, mostly chronic bleeding in small amounts. Long-term or massive bleeding can lead to iron deficiency anemia.