Eosinophilic esophagitis, or EoE, is a mouthful to say, but it’s an increasingly important condition to be aware of. EoE is a chronic allergic reaction in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. EoE is characterized by the buildup of eosinophils, which are a type of white blood cell that normally aren’t found in the esophagus. This buildup causes inflammation, leading to a range of symptoms.

These symptoms can look quite different depending on the age of the patient. Little ones, like infants and toddlers, might refuse food or struggle to grow as much or as fast expected. School-age kids might complain of frequent tummy aches, have a poor appetite, or find swallowing difficult. Teenagers and adults often report trouble swallowing, especially with dry or solid foods. This happens because the inflamed esophagus can narrow, making it hard for food to pass through easily. In severe cases, food can get stuck, which is called a “food impaction”. This can require urgent medical attention.

Doctors, including allergists and gastroenterologists, are diagnosing more people with EoE these days. This increase is partly because more people are developing the condition and partly due to better awareness among doctors. There is much to be learned about EoE, but we believe that in most cases it doesn’t go away on its own. Options for treatment include anti-inflammatory pills and swallowed liquids, dietary management, and in recent years, an injectable biologic medicine called dupilumab.

EoE cannot be diagnosed without an initial biopsy of the esophagus, typically done by a gastroenterologist. Once you are diagnosed, your Ohio ENT & Allergy provider can help you find the best management option to meet your needs.