Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is an auto immune disorder where eosinophils, a kind of white blood cell, is deposited in the esophagus lining. This accumulation leads into inflammation, pain, and lack of ability to swallow. EoE is not different than acid reflux and is prevalent among individuals with another allergy.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms may differ according to age; however, they may include:

• The inability to swallow (dysphagia)
• Obstructed movement of food in the esophagus.
• Pain in the chest or in the upper abdomen.
• Asymptomatic Medication-refractory Heartburn.
• Lack of appetite or weight gain (in children, in particular).

Causes

The precise cause of EoE is not very clear but it is caused by a number of factors:

• Dairy, wheat, soy, nuts, eggs or seafood are foods allergens.
• Pollen, dander of pets or dust mites are environmental allergens.
• Families Aunt: EoE or other allergic disease.
• Comorbid allergic disorders like asthma, eczema or seasonal allergies.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis Management Jersey Village.

The treatment implies diet modifications, medication, and procedures:

• Elimination diet: 6-8 weeks, avoid everything except typical trigger foods (milk, wheat, soy, nuts) then add in a food, one at a time, to identify culprits.
• Swallowed steroids: Liquid or aerosolized corticosteroids are to be used, and they cover the esophagus to suppress inflammation caused by eosinophils.
• Esophageal dilation: The constriction of the esophagus can be dilated by stretching the confined areas with fingers to eliminate strictures and enhance swallowing.
• Allergy treatment: Recognize allergens to the environment (pollen, dander of pets, dust) and either avoidance or immunotherapy with an allergist.
• Periodic endoscopy: Arrange endoscopic procedures, with biopsies, every several months to count the eosinophils and the status of mucosal healing.
• Maintenance therapy: Low-dose topical steroids, or specific changes in the diet are continued in the long term to prevent relapse and esophageal remodelling.