The effect of EoE on Digestion and Swallowing
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a disease that results in the inflammation of the esophagus. It might be an inconvenience, but those consequences can upset the whole digestive system- in regard to swallowing and transferring food to the stomach.
Learning about the effects of EoE on digestion and swallowing will enable you to recognize the symptoms before they occur and treat them in a more efficient way. This is a guide that simplifies the effects and provides methods of protecting your gut health.
What Occurs in the Digestive Tract in the case of EoE?
The esophagus transports food directly to your stomach without any problems to the stomach in the case of a healthy body. but in EoE the white blood cells known as eosinophils accumulate in the esophagus. Such accumulation leads to chronic inflammation, which may:
- Narrow the esophagus
- Cause scarring or rings
- Stir up the muscles assisting the passage of food
This complicates and even causes pain with time in digestion and swallowing.
The Influence of EoE on Swallowing (Dysphagia)
This process of swallowing is complicated with the involvement of muscles and nerves. EoE disturbs this process in a number of ways:
1. Inflammation Makes Eating Problematic
The swollen and tight inflamed tissue in the esophagus becomes swollen and tight. This complicates passage of food particularly solid food.
2. Narrowing (Strictures)
Scarring may occur due to chronic inflammatory processes, and this decreases the size of the esophagus. This is known as a stricture. Food can have a sensation that it is becoming stuck.
3. Food Impaction
In extreme situations, the food may get stuck in the esophagus. This is a health emergency and one in need of urgent treatment
4. Fear of Eating
Most EoE patients are worried about eating. This may result in slowness in eating, shunning meals or loss of weight.
How EoE Affects Digestion
EoE is a condition that dominates the esophagus, but it is the symptom that is felt throughout your digestive system:
Delayed Swallowing
The slow movement of food or its entrapment slows down the whole digestion process.
Nutritional Gaps
One may avoid some foods or whole food groups (such as dairy, wheat, or meat) in fear of a trigger, which may cause nutrient deficiencies.
Reflux and Heartburn
Acid reflux is also experienced by some of the individuals with EoE, as an additional source of discomfort and inflammation.
Appetite Loss
The fear of food sticking or unceasing discomfort will decrease your appetite and consequently cause weight loss and exhaustion.
General Pointers of Dysphagia in EoE
- The sensation that there is food trapped in the chest or the throat
- Taking a long time to eat
- Having to take plenty of water to make food go down
- Pain when swallowing
- Difficulties in swallowing food or drinks
- Vomiting un-digested food
EoE-related dysphagia may be happening to you in case these are familiar to you
Diagnosis of Swallowing Problems by Doctors in EoE
To determine the impact of EoE on your swallowing, doctors employ a number of procedures to determine the condition:
Endoscopy
Demonstrates swelling, rings or constriction in the esophagus.
Biopsy
Tests positive of eosinophils (inflammatory cells).
Barium Swallow Test
You gulp a liquid which gives a coating to the esophagus which can be seen on X-rays.
Esophageal Manometry
Tests the functionality of the esophagus muscles.
Dealing with EoE and Enhancing Digestion
You can do something to minimize symptoms and to have your body better process food:
- Dietary Management: Cooperate with a specialist and get rid of trigger foods without harm. Eliminate foods one after another, and discover the culprits.
- Drugs: Oral steroids are anti-inflammatory agents. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used to manage the symptoms associated with acid.
- Esophageal Dilation: When the esophagus is too small, a physician can dilate it during endoscopy and suggest that patient swallows easier.
EoE tips: Easy Swallowing
- Cut food into small pieces
- Swallow in large lumps
- Take food gradually and remain in an upright position when eating
- Avoid hard and dry foodstuffs which are hard to swallow
- Take small portions of water with each bite
These are the basic habits that could be taken to mitigate the risk of food impaction and discomfort.
Conclusion
Eosinophilic Esophagitis may have profound impact on your food digestion and swallowing. These problems can be addressed early enough to prevent complications and take more care of your esophagus.
In case food is hard or uncomfortable to consume, do not overlook the symptoms. Talk to your doctor. And with the help of the proper care plan you will be able to eat once again and to secure your digestive system.
