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Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergy-driven condition causing esophageal inflammation and swallowing difficulties. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers expert, personalized diagnosis and treatment, including diet modifications, advanced testing, medications, and minimally invasive procedures to restore comfortable, symptom-free eating.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Food allergies (milk, wheat, soy, eggs)
Environmental triggers (pollen, pet dander)
Family history of allergies or asthma
Acid reflux (can mimic or worsen EoE)
More common in boys and young men
Signs and Symptoms
Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
Food getting stuck in the throat (food impaction)
Chest or upper abdominal pain
Heartburn that doesn't improve with acid-reducing meds
Slow growth or poor weight gain in children
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Symptom Review and Physical Exam
He goes over your history of swallowing difficulties, chest or epigastric pain, food impaction, heartburn, growth or weightâgain concerns, and any known allergies.
Endoscopy with Biopsy
A thin, flexible scope inspects the esophagus lining. Multiple small tissue samples (biopsies) are taken to look for eosinophil buildup under the microscope.
Allergy Testing
Skin prick or blood tests identify specific food or environmental allergens that may be triggering your symptoms.
Esophageal pH Monitoring
24-hour pH monitoring rules out acid reflux as the primary cause of your discomfort and helps differentiate GERD from EoE.
Advanced Motility Studies (if needed)
Esophageal manometry evaluates muscle contractions and coordination if swallowing mechanics are in question.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for eosinophilic esophagitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Guidance through an elimination diet to remove common triggers (dairy, wheat, soy, eggs)
Structured food reintroduction plan to identify safe foods
Advice on using air filters and reducing home allergens (pollen, pet dander)
2. Medications
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to lower stomach acid
Swallowed corticosteroids to reduce esophageal inflammation
Biologic therapies for more severe or long-term cases
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Endoscopic dilation to gently stretch narrowed areas of the esophagus and improve swallowing
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for eosinophilic esophagitis?
K20.0 - used for insurance and diagnosis.
How fast does treatment work?
Most people feel better within 6 to 8 weeks of starting treatment.
Can EoE go away on its own?
No. It's a chronic condition, but symptoms can be controlled with proper care.
Do swallowed steroids have side effects?
Side effects are rare. You might notice a mild sore throat.
How do I know if my child has EoE?
Watch for slow eating, food refusal, or vomiting. Early testing is key.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Yes. Most plans cover endoscopy, dietary guidance, and medications. We'll verify your benefits for you.
