How Long Does It Take to Recover from Reflux Esophagitis?

Reflux esophagitis recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment used. For mild cases, such as Grade A reflux esophagitis observed during endoscopy, healing can occur within approximately four weeks when treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). However, if H2 receptor antagonists are used instead, the healing process may take longer—typically around 8 to 12 weeks.

In more severe cases, such as Grade C or D esophagitis, the treatment duration is significantly longer. Patients may require up to eight weeks of PPI therapy or as long as 12 weeks of H2 blocker treatment to see improvement. Moreover, after initial healing, many individuals will need ongoing maintenance therapy to prevent recurrence and manage symptoms effectively.

Maintenance treatment is tailored to each individual's needs. The goal is to find the lowest effective dose that prevents symptoms from returning. This phase of treatment may continue for months or even years, depending on how well the patient responds and how easily symptoms are controlled.

Ultimately, the overall treatment timeline for reflux esophagitis is not fixed. It depends on a variety of factors including disease severity, medication type, and individual response to therapy. Working closely with a healthcare provider ensures the most effective and personalized treatment plan.