Summarize the following:
You can affect your risk for esophagitis through some of the lifestyle choices you make. Alcohol reduces the strength of the lower esophageal sphincter and can trigger gastroesophageal reflux, or stomach acid that refluxes up the esophagus. This creates irritation and inflammation in the lining of the esophagus. Take note how you feel after you drink alcohol. See if you start to notice a trend. Cigarette smoking has the same effect on the esophagus. Acidic foods and caffeinated beverages will also increase the acidity in the stomach. These can increase the risk of reflux and trigger esophagitis. Write down the foods you eat and how you feel in the hours after you eat. Drug-induced esophagitis is triggered when you swallow pills with little to no water. The residue from the pill remains in the esophagus, creating irritation and inflammation.  Some of the more common medications to create this problem includes pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen sodium, antibiotics, potassium chloride, biphosphonates for treatment of osteoporosis, and quinidine used for treatment of some heart conditions.
Observe your reaction to alcohol and smoking. Keep track of your intake of certain foods. Pay attention to how you swallow pills.