Eosinophilic esophagitis is an inflammation affecting the last part of the esophagus that connects it to the stomach. This inflammation is characterized by irritation or inflammation in the eosinophil layer of the esophagus, causing a variety of symptoms. Typically, eosinophilic esophagitis is accompanied by symptoms such as burning and pain in the chest area and difficulty swallowing. This condition may negatively impact the daily lives of those affected, causing severe discomfort and difficulty in food intake. We will shed light on its causes, potential risk factors, symptoms experienced by those affected, common diagnostic methods, and available options for treatment and symptom relief.
What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis?
The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Inside the esophagus are cells called eosinophils, which are sensitivity cells that are not typically found in the esophagus.
Sensitivity, especially food sensitivity, may be the cause of eosinophilic esophagitis. In some cases, this inflammation may run in certain families and can affect both children and adults.
What are the Symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis?
Symptoms can vary depending on the person’s age and usually include:
- Difficulty swallowing: This is the most common symptom. People often struggle to swallow solid foods or feel that the food is stuck in the throat or chest.
- Chest or upper abdominal pain.
- Chest burning that does not improve after taking medication for heartburn.
Children usually experience symptoms such as:
- Nutritional problems, such as refusing to eat solid foods.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Abdominal pain.
How is Eosinophilic Esophagitis Diagnosed?
Upper endoscopy is performed, where the doctor inserts a thin tube with a camera and light at its end into your mouth and pushes it down into the esophagus. The doctor examines the esophageal lining and takes small samples to examine the cells under a microscope to confirm eosinophilic esophagitis.
What is the treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis?
Treatment usually involves dietary changes and medications:
- Dietary changes: There are three main approaches, including avoiding common trigger foods like milk and dairy products, identifying foods you are allergic to by undergoing tests, and following a special liquid-based diet while avoiding all solid foods. After improvement in symptoms, you can gradually reintroduce food into your diet.
- Medications: Doctors use various medications to treat eosinophilic esophagitis. One such medication is proton pump inhibitors, which are used to treat acid reflux. Some individuals with eosinophilic esophagitis experience acid reflux at times.
Other medications include steroids, which help reduce inflammation. Steroids usually come in a device called an inhaler, but you do not inhale them in the same way you would with typical inhalers. Instead, you allow the medication to accumulate in your mouth and then swallow it. Steroids can also be given in liquid or tablet form.
In some individuals, esophagitis leads to a condition called esophageal stricture. The primary treatment for esophageal stricture in individuals who do not respond to medications is a dilation procedure to increase the width of the esophagus, performed during an internal endoscopy.
Best Doctor for Eosinophilic Esophagitis Treatment
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie is the best doctor for treating eosinophilic esophagitis. He is a consultant in hepatology, gastroenterology, and endoscopy, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in England, and a member of the American College of Gastroenterology. Currently, Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie teaches general internal medicine, liver, and digestive system diseases at Al-Azhar University in Cairo.
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie actively participates in various local and international scientific conferences and has numerous published scientific research papers in prestigious medical journals.
Book your appointment now if you would like to consult with Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie regarding eosinophilic esophagitis, its latest diagnostic methods, and treatment options.