Living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. In EOE, certain white blood cells called eosinophils build up in the esophagus. This buildup causes swelling and pain. In this article we explain the signs and symptoms of EOE and some common ways to manage the condition.
9 Signs and Symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
1. Difficulty Swallowing
Many people with EOE feel like food gets stuck in their throat. It can be hard to swallow and some may need to take small bites or chew their food more carefully. This trouble swallowing is known as dysphagia.
2. Chest Pain
Chest pain in EOE might feel like a tight squeeze or burning sensation. This pain happens because the esophagus is inflamed and it can be confused with heart pain. It is important to talk to a doctor if you feel chest pain.
3. Nausea
Some patients with EOE feel sick to their stomach. This nausea can happen before or after eating and may lead to discomfort throughout the day, making it hard to enjoy meals.
4. Vomiting
Vomiting can also be a symptom of EOE. When the esophagus is very irritated, the body may try to clear it by forcing food or liquid back up.
5. Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain occurs in the stomach area. For people who have EOE, the pain might feel like cramps or a dull ache, especially after eating certain foods. This happens because the inflammation in the esophagus can affect nearby areas.
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6. Food Impaction
Food impaction is when a piece of food gets stuck in the esophagus so that it does not pass into the stomach. This is a serious problem in EOE and might require immediate medical help. If you ever experience food getting stuck, it is important to get help right away.
7. Regurgitation
Regurgitation is when food or liquid comes back up into the mouth without the force of vomiting. This can make eating uncomfortable and may lead to breathing problems if the food is inhaled into the lungs.
8. Difficulty Feeding (Infants)
Infants with EOE might have trouble feeding properly. They can become fussy during mealtime, may refuse to eat or may not gain weight as expected. Parents should watch for signs of feeding difficulties and discuss them with their pediatrician.
9. Difficulty Eating (Children)
Children who have EOE might avoid eating certain foods that they find hard to swallow or might be slower at mealtime. They could also experience pain and discomfort that makes eating less enjoyable.
Common Methods to Manage EOE Symptoms
Management of EOE often involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Here are the most common therapies used for EOE.
1. Biological Agents
Biological agents are medicines made from living cells. They work by targeting and blocking parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. Biological agents can be used for severe cases of EOE. These drugs are often given by injection and doctors will decide if they are right based on the patient’s health and symptom severity.
2. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are strong medicines that help reduce inflammation in the esophagus. They can be given as a pill or as a liquid that is swallowed. They work by calming the eosinophils.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are usually thought of as medicines for acid reflux, but they also help some people with EOE. PPIs reduce the production of stomach acid, which can lower inflammation and pain in the esophagus. They are often one of the first medicines tried by doctors for EOE.
4. Dilation
Dilation is a procedure in which doctors stretch the esophagus to help food pass through more easily. This treatment is often used when there is significant narrowing or scarring in the esophagus. Dilation can give immediate relief for those who have food impaction due to narrowing.
5. Food Group Elimination
Many people with EOE benefit from changing their diet. Food group elimination is a method where common allergens like dairy, wheat, eggs, soy, nuts or seafood are removed from the diet. After some time, foods are slowly added back one at a time to see which ones cause a reaction. This process helps patients identify what may be causing the inflammation.
6. Work with a Nutritionist
A nutritionist can help create a balanced diet that avoids triggering foods while still providing proper nutrients. With professional help, you can keep your energy levels up and find new recipes that suit your tastes. A nutritionist will also help ensure that you are not missing out on important vitamins and minerals.
7. Mental Health Support
Living with a long-term condition like EOE can be stressful. It can feel overwhelming or depressing at times when meals become a challenge. Seeing a counselor or joining a support group with other people who have EOE may help.
There are many ways to manage the symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis. It is always best to work with your doctor to choose the right treatment plan.
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