How Is Esophagitis Diagnosed? Make an appointment to see your doctor if you have signs of esophagitis. Be prepared to provide a full medical history, including any previously diagnosed conditions. List all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take. Your doctor will likely perform a physical examination. They may also order diagnostic tests, including: endoscopy barium X-ray, also called an upper GI series biopsies allergy testing, which may include skin tests and eliminating certain foods from your diet TREATMENT Treatment for Esophagitis Treatment depends on the specific cause of your symptoms. Medications may include: antiviral medications antifungal medications antacids pain relievers oral steroids proton pump inhibitors (these medications block stomach acid production) If food allergies cause your condition, you must identify trigger foods and eliminate them from your diet. Common food triggers include tomatoes, citrus fruits, spicy food, alcohol, caffeine, onions, garlic, mint, and chocolate. You can also ease your symptoms by avoiding spicy foods, acidic foods and drinks, and raw or hard foods. Take smaller bites and chew your food well. You should avoid tobacco and alcohol, which increase inflammation and suppress the immune system. Ask your doctor for dietary guidelines. Surgery to dilate the esophagus may be necessary if the esophagus has become too narrow and causes food to lodge. If your symptoms are due to medication, you may need to drink more water, take a liquid version of the medication, or try a different medication. You may need to refrain from lying down for 30 minutes after taking medication in pill form.