Kim Kardashian Discusses Her Diagnosis of Esophagitis

Kim Kardashian recently shared a personal health update regarding a diagnosis that resonates deeply with her family history. In a trailer for the reality show “The Kardashians,” the 45-year-old star revealed that she has been diagnosed with esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus. This news carries particular weight for her, as her father, Robert Kardashian Sr., passed away from esophageal cancer in 2003 at the age of 59.

During the episode, the founder of Skims appeared on a hospital bed. A voice off-camera referenced her father’s condition, asking, “Didn’t your father… isn’t it what he died of?” This moment brought out strong emotions in Kardashian’s mother and manager, Kris Jenner, who expressed, “I can’t. It makes me want to cry.” However, medical experts clarified that the two conditions are not identical.

Esophagitis, as explained by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), refers to inflammation of the esophagus, a tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Causes include acid reflux, certain medications, infections, or allergies. It is crucial to note the distinction between esophagitis and esophageal cancer. Esophageal cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute, is the result of malignant cells forming in the tissues lining the esophagus. The two primary types are squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

“While esophagitis itself does not directly cause cancer, chronic inflammation could lead to Barrett’s esophagus, a precancerous condition,” the NIDDK warns.

Among individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), approximately 5% to 15% develop Barrett’s esophagus, but most do not progress to esophageal cancer. To manage esophagitis symptoms and lessen future cancer risks, the Mayo Clinic recommends several steps. If GERD is the cause, patients are advised to take prescribed acid-reducing medication to aid the healing of the esophagus.

• Avoid food and drink known to worsen reflux, such as alcohol, caffeine, chocolate, and mint.
• Stay upright for at least three hours after eating, and elevate sleeping arrangements if reflux occurs at night.
• Lose excess weight and stop smoking to minimize reflux and assist healing.
• Consult a gastroenterologist if symptoms persist or complications arise.

In a separate health disclosure, Kardashian shared a notable event in 2025 when her doctors, during an MRI scan, found a small, unruptured brain aneurysm. “They’re like, ‘It’s been there for, like, years. It was here a few years ago,’” she recounted in a “The Kardashians” episode.

For further insights and updates, Fox News Digital reached out to Kardashian for her comments.