Eosinophilic Esophagitis is a condition where the esophagus becomes inflamed due to an overproduction of eosinophils. This buildup is often triggered by allergens in food or the environment. The inflammation can make it difficult for food to pass through the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and food getting stuck in the throat.
There is no strict classification for EoE types, but the condition can be divided based on the severity of symptoms and the level of eosinophilic infiltration in the esophagus. It is often seen in conjunction with other allergic conditions like asthma, eczema, and seasonal allergies.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis is relatively rare but has been increasing in prevalence over the past decade, especially in children and young adults. It is more common in males than females and often presents in individuals who have other allergic conditions.
At GI Partners of Illinois, we take a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and managing Eosinophilic Esophagitis. Our team works closely with allergy specialists to identify triggers, perform allergy testing, and develop a treatment plan that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying causes of EoE. We offer the latest diagnostic tools, including endoscopy and biopsies, to monitor the condition and tailor treatments that improve quality of life.
Common food triggers include dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, nuts, and seafood. An elimination diet or allergy testing can help determine which foods you should avoid.
EoE is diagnosed through an upper endoscopy with biopsies of the esophagus to check for an elevated number of eosinophils. Allergy testing is also commonly used to identify triggers.
There is no cure for EoE, but it can be managed with dietary changes, medications such as corticosteroids, and avoidance of known allergens.
Treatment may involve dietary modifications, swallowed topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, proton pump inhibitors, and, in severe cases, esophageal dilation to relieve strictures caused by scarring.
Yes, people with EoE often have other allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema, or seasonal allergies. These conditions may share common immune system pathways, contributing to the development of EoE.
