Eosinophils are part of the immune system.
They normally work to fight infections in the body.
The overgrowth seen in eosinophilic esophagitis is believed to be due to an allergic response.
Science Photo Library / Getty Images
This buildup of eosinophils on the lining of the esophagus leads to inflammation and injury.
The most common symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis is difficulty swallowing.
This article will describe the common symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis.
It will also explain when to call the doctor or seek emergency treatment.
Normally there are no eosinophils in the esophagus.
Symptoms are brought on by this chronic inflammation in the lining of the esophagus.
Common symptoms in adults include:
The feeling of food becoming stuck in the throat is known asfood impaction.
Rare Symptoms
Eosinophilic esophagitis can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated.
When food becomes lodged in the esophagus, this is known as food impaction.
Food impaction makes it impossible to eat or drink and must be treated right away.
This is especially true if the impacted food feels as though it is blocking your airway as well.
Eosinophilic esophagitis can also cause chest pain.
Call your doctor right away if you are experiencing chest pain.
Complications
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic condition and can lead to complications over time.
Your primary doctor will likely refer you to anallergistorgastroenterologistto diagnose and treat the condition.
Eosinophilic esophagitis is considered to be a chronic condition.
While it can bemanaged and controlled, there is no known cure.
See your doctor any time you are experiencing new-onset chest pain.
Because this can be a sign of heart disease, its important to address it right away.
This is an emergency and requires immediate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eosinophilic esophagitis has been associated with food allergies and is often treated withelimination diets.
The only way to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis is with an upperendoscopyand biopsy.
This involves placing a tube with a light and a camera down the esophagus to examine the tissue.
However, chest pain could also indicate heart disease and should never be ignored.
If you are having chest pain, call your doctor or seek emergency treatment.
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Eosinophilic esophagitis.
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.Eosinophilic esophagitis: Symptoms, diagnosis & treatment.
Gonsalves NP, Aceves SS.Diagnosis and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis.J Allergy Clin Immunol.
2020 Jan;145(1):1-7. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2019.11.011
Furuta GT, Katzka DA.Eosinophilic esophagitis.N Engl J Med.
2018 Jan;154(2):333-345. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2017.06.065
American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders.EoE.
Reed CC, Dellon ES.Eosinophilic esophagitis.Med Clin North Am.
