This ulceration can cause painful swallowing and also bleeding. Stricture is narrowing of the oesophagus caused by scarring because of longstanding oesophagitis. Stricture causes difficulty with swallowing because food sticks at the narrowing. Reflux can be made worse by things you do or have some control over. Heartburn is typically more frequent after large, fatty or spicy meals.
Many people find that specific foods provoke symptoms, eg.
Eating just before you go to bed or before you exercise can lead to symptoms. Smoking may aggravate reflux. Alcohol may make reflux more irritant and so provoke symptoms. Pregnancy is often associated with troublesome reflux, probably due to hormonal factors and the pressure of the baby. It resolves as soon as the baby is born.