About Eosinophilic Esophagitis

What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, allergic inflammatory disease of the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). It is characterized by an increased number of white blood cells called eosinophils in the esophageal tissue. Symptoms of EoE include difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, chest pain, heartburn, and vomiting. Treatment typically involves dietary modifications, medications, and/or endoscopic procedures.

What are the symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Common symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

• Chest pain
• Heartburn
• Food getting stuck in the esophagus
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Poor appetite
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Hoarseness

What are the causes of Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

The exact cause of eosinophilic esophagitis is unknown, but it is believed to be an allergic reaction to certain foods or environmental allergens. Common triggers include milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish. Other potential triggers include pollen, dust mites, animal dander, and mold.

What are the treatments for Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

1. Dietary modifications: Eliminating foods that trigger eosinophilic esophagitis, such as dairy, wheat, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.

2. Topical corticosteroids: These medications are swallowed in liquid or pill form and help reduce inflammation in the esophagus.

3. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus.

4. Swallowed topical corticosteroids: These medications are swallowed in liquid or pill form and help reduce inflammation in the esophagus.

5. Allergen immunotherapy: This treatment involves exposing the patient to small amounts of the allergen in order to build up a tolerance.

6. Endoscopic

What are the risk factors for Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

1. Allergies: People with allergies, especially food allergies, are more likely to develop eosinophilic esophagitis.

2. Asthma: People with asthma are more likely to develop eosinophilic esophagitis.

3. Atopic dermatitis: People with atopic dermatitis (eczema) are more likely to develop eosinophilic esophagitis.

4. Family history: People with a family history of eosinophilic esophagitis are more likely to develop the condition.

5. Age: Eosinophilic esophagitis is more common in children and young adults.

Is there a cure/medications for Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Yes, there are treatments available for Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE). These include medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), topical steroids, and dietary modifications. Additionally, some patients may benefit from allergen immunotherapy, which is a form of allergy shots.