What is eosinophilic esophagitis?
Eosinophilic esophagitis, also known as EoE, is a rare condition estimated to affect just one in 2,000 individuals. It is a disorder that impacts the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach) and leads to swallowing difficulties in both children and adults. To learn more about the impact of eosinophilic esophagitis, check out the information below.
What is eosinophilic esophagitis?
Eosinophilic esophagitis is an allergic reaction that is localized to the esophagus. When an allergen triggers the immune system to produce white blood cells (called eosinophils), the esophagus becomes inflamed and may not contract properly. EoE is often confused with other conditions such as acid reflux disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, because eosinophils are not found in the esophagus in people who do not experience EoE, a biopsy of the esophagus can provide an accurate diagnosis.
Eosinophilic esophagitis has only been identified since the early 1990s, but researchers are learning more about this condition and its impact daily. Currently, it is not known what the exact cause of EoE is, but it is believed that certain genes, as well as exposure to allergens, can play a role. Those with atopic dermatitis, asthma, or other allergies may be more likely to develop the condition, and family history may also increase a person’s risk.
Eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms
Eosinophilic esophagitis can impact individuals at any age, and symptoms can include:
- Vomiting
- Slow weight gain and growth in children
- Reflux that cannot be treated with medication
- Abdominal pain
- Trouble swallowing
- Poor appetite
- Food becoming lodged in the esophagus
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
Eosinophilic esophagitis treatment
While there is no known cure for eosinophilic esophagitis, people may experience relief through medication and lifestyle changes. It is often recommended that an individual work with an allergist to determine what triggers eosinophilic esophagitis. Often, the condition will be related to food, so many patients can work with their medical team to customize a diet for eosinophilic esophagitis that works for them. Additionally, steroids and acid suppressors can often be used to control inflammation.
Though eosinophilic esophagitis has no known cure, researchers are constantly working to learn more about this condition — and to do so, they need patients to take part in research. To learn more about eosinophilic esophagitis clinical trials, click the button below.
