EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS

EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a persistent allergic disease of the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects to the mouth through the stomach. It happens when a type of white blood cell called eosinophil gathers in the throat. The rise in the number of eosinophils may cause inflammation and injury to your esophagus. This problem may cause eating difficulties and discomfort. It will result in weak growth, difficulty in swallowing, and also persistent pain.

The exact cause of this is unknown. The belief is that it is caused by an immune system response to the foods that we eat. Some patients with eosinophilic esophagitis have food allergies.  It is a disease that needs monitoring and management. It is essential to know what is going on in your stomach. If left untreated, it will cause a scary situation that will narrow your esophagus and make your symptoms worse.

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis may depend on the person’s age and the immune system. Most infants don’t want their food and have delayed growth. Some children who already go to school may have a recurring problem with abdominal pain, vomiting, and swallowing. Adults and adolescents mostly experience painful and difficulty in swallowing. The esophagus may become small and may cause the food to stick in the stomach. They will need immediate emergency attention.

Symptoms may depend on the developmental ability and age of the person affected.

  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Reflux that does not respond to any medication
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal and chest pain
  • Refusalto eat or poor appetite
  • Difficulty in sleeping due to pain
  • Food stuck in the esophagus
  • Poor growth

Weight loss

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis is by consulting a gastroenterologist. The doctor will examine you about your symptoms and your medical history. Since it is a rare condition, gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is the first thing that can be ruled out. The doctor will perform an endoscopy to check what is inside your stomach. During this process, anesthesia is given and a small tube is inserted through your mouth. A pathologist will examine the sample tissues under a microscope to see the structure of cells.

TREATMENT

Treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis may include topical steroids that are used to control inflammation and subdue eosinophils. Antacids and proton pump inhibitors may help in relieving acid reflux symptoms. Dilation is used to treat when your esophagus becomes too small, and if your food is stuck on your throat.

Treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis includes diet management and medication. Know what foods trigger it and cause you a problem.

Repeating an endoscopy and biopsy are also needed to monitor if there is an improvement after treatment.

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