Sounds like an infection to the esophagus or acid leaking from the stomach into it due to the sphincter muscles at the top of the stomach being weak through infection or excess acid. Over the counter anti-acid medication can really help the esophagus to recover. I took Gaviscon for about 2 weeks and things greatly improved. After 3 weeks it was cured. Don't lay down soon after eating and use extra pillows to elevate the body. This helps prevent the acid going upwards. If it lasts longer than 3 weeks with meds, then I would seek medical attention.
You probably want to post this in the gastroenterology forum here:
http://www.medhelp.org/forums/Gastroenterology/show/68