I have been diagnosed with Esophageal Lichen Planus 10 days ago. I'm 63yrs. old and have struggled with discomfort in my esophagus and mouth which has made it very hard to eat. I have lost over 25lbs. in the past four months. The lack of nutrition brought me into the hospital due to a critically low sodium level. I was very sick. I initially had oral thrush from two rounds of antibiotics. The discomfort in my esophagus and mouth didn't go away although the thrush did after several weeks of medications in an attempt to treat it. Thus I was referred to a gastroenterologist who diagnosed ELI after endoscopic exploration and biopsies. I will be seeing an Ear, Nose and Throat specialist soon for an evaluation also.
I have Hashimoto's Auto-immune thyroiditis with hypothyroidism that was diagnosed 30 years ago. I have been on synthetic thyroid hormone replacement since that time.
The ELP I have does become very painful at times. Toothpaste stings my mouth etc..... Carbonated beverages will sting in my esophagus. I cannot tolerate anything spicy. Citrus drinks etc...cause a lot of discomfort and irritation.
I am struggling. This is frightening!