Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease is associated with inflammation in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is usually caused by a particular kind of allergy to specific foods or even airborne proteins.
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What are the signs and symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis?
Common symptoms in children may include:
- Difficulty swallowing
- Aversion to eating in infants
- Nausea and vomiting
- Poor weight gain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn
- Abdominal pain
- Food getting stuck in the esophagus (impaction)
Please note there are many conditions that have similar symptoms. It’s important to see your child’s doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What causes eosinophilic esophagitis?
Experts do not know what causes some children to have EoE. It often runs in families. It is more common in individuals who has asthma, eczema, and other allergies.
How is eosinophilc esophagitis diagnosed?
The definitive diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis is through upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and biopsy. If there is a history of food getting stuck, it is common to do a special X-ray of the esophagus after drinking a contrast material to make sure the esophagus is not narrowed.
How is eosinophilic esophagitis treated?
- Unfortunately standard allergy testing is usually not helpful in identifying which food(s) may be causing eosinophilic esophagitis. The most common offending foods are milk, soy, wheat, eggs, nuts and fish. Depending on the severity of symptoms and inflammation, your physician and dietician will work with you to make dietary changes.
- Medications, such as steroids and those that reduce stomach acid, may help relieve symptoms and are often used in conjunction with dietary changes.