What are the major causes of reflux esophagitis?
Reflux of gastric contents is the major cause of reflux esophagitis. Many factors play a role: (a) presence of a sliding hiatal hernia is the most common; (b) heavy alcohol use; (c) heavy tobacco use; (d) obesity; (e) increased gastric volume. It has been estimated that 10% of the population in the U.S. has had symptoms of reflux esophagitis. Although largely limited to adults older than 40 years of age, reflux esophagitis is occasionally seen in infants and children.
