Final answer:
The most likely cause of the patient's symptoms is esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus caused by acid reflux. Other listed conditions are not likely to present with the specific symptoms described by the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely cause of the patient's symptoms, which include heartburn, pain with swallowing, and feeling like an object is stuck in the throat, is esophagitis.
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus, which can be caused by different factors including acid reflux. Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn, pain with swallowing, and the sensation of an object stuck in the throat.
Other listed conditions such as esophageal varices, peptic ulcer, and gastroenteritis do not typically present with the specific symptoms described by the patient.