Kim Kardashian Reveals Esophagitis Diagnosis in ‘The Kardashians’ Season 8 Trailer

In a recent update shared via the official trailer for the eighth season of “The Kardashians,” television personality and SKIMS founder Kim Kardashian disclosed that she has been diagnosed with esophagitis. The trailer, released on Thursday, captures Kardashian explaining the condition to her family before the conversation turns to her late father, Robert Kardashian.

When a family member asks if her diagnosis is related to what killed her father, Kardashian confirms the connection. The clip also features emotional reactions from her family, including her mother, Kris Jenner, who expresses distress upon hearing the news.

According to MedlinePlus, an online health resource operated by the National Library of Medicine, esophagitis involves swelling, inflammation, or irritation of the esophageal lining—the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. The condition is frequently triggered by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid flows back into the food pipe.

Common symptoms associated with esophagitis include persistent coughing, hoarseness, sore throat, heartburn, and painful or difficult swallowing. MedlinePlus notes that risk factors may include obesity, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, vomiting, lying down shortly after eating large meals, and certain medical procedures such as chest surgery or radiation. Additionally, taking supplements like potassium or vitamin C pills without adequate water intake can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.

Treatment approaches vary depending on the underlying cause. Medical interventions may involve prescription medications to reduce stomach acid, antibiotics or antifungals for infections, and coatings to protect the esophageal lining from pill-induced damage. Lifestyle adjustments, particularly dietary changes, are also commonly recommended. MedlinePlus reports that most inflammatory conditions of the esophagus respond well to treatment.

The revelation highlights the tragic history surrounding the Kardashian family, as Robert Kardashian passed away from esophageal cancer in September 2003. He was a defense attorney best known for representing O.J. Simpson during his 1995 murder trial and had learned of his diagnosis only two months before his death.

The National Cancer Institute defines esophageal cancer as a malignancy forming in the esophageal tissues. While adenocarcinoma of the esophagus is strongly linked to GERD, ordinary esophagitis is not considered a precancerous condition. However, chronic GERD lasting several years can lead to Barrett esophagus, a disorder where stomach acid damages the esophageal lining and alters cell structure. This condition may progress to cancer and can be treated with surgery or other medical procedures.

Esophageal cancer treatments typically encompass surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, laser therapy, or immunotherapy. “The Kardashians” season 8 is scheduled to premiere on Oct. 8 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.