Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic allergic and immune condition associated with the esophagus. The condition results from the presence of a specific type of white blood cells—called eosinophils—in the esophagus or the food pipe.
The condition is quite rare and mainly affects food consumption and some organs in the body. Eosinophilic esophagitis is considered a major digestive system-related condition since it has no cure. The symptoms, however, can be kept at bay to prevent further damage.
The eosinophil cells build up in the esophagus, causing unfavorable reactions when it comes to contact with an allergen. The reaction leads to inflammation and damage to the food pipe. Read more to know about eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms, causes, treatment, and other important factors.
Eosinophilic Esophagitis Causes
Eosinophilic esophagitis occurs due to the presence of the white blood cell eosinophil in the food pipe. The occurrence of these cells in the esophagus is mainly due to either an allergic response or genetic factors.
Allergic response
People might experience undesirable reactions while consuming certain foods. This is due to the response the body executes to get rid of an allergen, a substance that causes an allergic response. The allergic reaction might occur after consuming foods containing soy, peanuts or dairy, etc.
Genetic factors
People with higher expression of the eotaxin-3 gene may get eosinophilic esophagitis. The gene controls the production of the eotaxin-3 gene in the body. Since the gene cell is present in large numbers, it leads to higher production of white blood cells. This will eventually result in eosinophilic esophagitis.
Eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms
The symptoms of Eosinophilic esophagitis vary in children and adults. But the most common factor is difficulty swallowing or eating due to the build-up of eosinophil cells. Other symptoms include.
In children:
- Weight loss
- Difficulty in eating and drinking
- Vomiting
- Malnutrition
In adults
- Difficulty in swallowing, or dysphagia
- Chest pain
- Heartburn
- Regurgitation
Regurgitation is where the food rises up in the esophagus leading to spitting of food without any sign of nausea.
Eosinophilic esophagitis treatment,
Unfortunately, there is no cure for eosinophilic esophagitis and it is a chronic condition. So people undergo treatment to keep the symptoms at bay. Eosinophilic esophagitis treatment can either be through medicine or diet.
Eosinophilic esophagitis treatment guidelines
With several ongoing research studies about eosinophilic esophagitis, the treatment gets enhanced with time. These advancements have brought some key guidelines to reduce the impact of eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms. Also, these guidelines change from time to time with new discoveries. Make sure you consult with a medical provider for a proper diagnosis.
Some of the key guidelines include the recommendations of topical steroids as first-line treatment, proton pump inhibition (PPI) therapy, diet therapy, esophageal dilation, and targeted biologic therapies. It is suggested to visit a healthcare provider to discuss these treatment guidelines.
Eosinophilic esophagitis natural treatment
As we know, there is no cure for eosinophilic esophagitis but can control the symptoms. Herbal ingredients such as licorice and chamomile can ease the heartburn caused by this condition.
One can also try performing meditation and engaging in acupuncture techniques to control acid reflux. It is always advisable to visit your healthcare provider to discuss Eosinophilic esophagitis natural treatment.
Eosinophilic esophagitis cancer
The study and research conducted for decades have so far shown that eosinophilic esophagitis is not cancerous, that is, the condition does not result or cause cancer. The condition, despite being a chronic disease, does not decrease the life expectancy of the person affected.
Eosinophilic esophagitis diet
People with eosinophilic esophagitis should be the most careful when it comes to diet. One had to eliminate several food items to avoid any allergic reaction that would trigger any discomfort in the esophagus. If one finds it difficult to determine what food they are allergic to, then it is advised to avoid the major allergy-triggering foods.
| Food Category | Foods to Avoid | Foods to Eat |
| Dairy and dairy products | Milk Condensed milk Butter Cheese Ghee Yogurt Sour cream Ice cream | Coconut milk Oat milk Dairy-free yogurt, cheese Cashew ice cream |
| Wheat products | Wheat-based flour Glucose syrup Gluten-containing products Semolina Beer | Gluten-free foods Arrowroot Potato Rye Oats Legumes Quinoa Tapioca |
| Egg products | Egg Eggnog Cream filling Baked products (ones containing eggs) | Egg-free foods Egg substitutes |
| Soy products | Soy sauce Tempeh Soya Miso Natto Tofu | Refined soybean oil (consult with a healthcare provider first) Soy sauce substitute |
| Nut products | Walnut Almond Pistachio Nut butter Nut oil | Pumpkin seeds Sesame seeds Sunflower seeds Coconut products |
| Fish and shellfish products | All fishes, crustacea, and mollusks. | Animal-based proteins like poultry, beef, pork, venison, and so on. |
Conclusion :
EoE is a significant and challenging medical condition that affects both children and adults. It is believed to result from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. The condition can cause a range of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, chest pain, food impaction, and heartburn, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
