What is eosinophilic esophagitis?
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system disease.
In this condition, a type of white blood cell called eosinophils accumulates in the lining of the esophagus. The accumulation of eosinophils is caused by a reaction to food, an allergen, or acid reflux - this process can damage or cause inflammation of the esophagus. Against the background of damaged esophageal tissue, the patient has difficulty swallowing - food may even be regurgitated.
Eosinophilic esophagitis was discovered in the early 1990s, but today this diagnosis is the most common cause of digestive system diseases.
In adults, it manifests itself with the following symptoms:
- Difficulty swallowing;
- Food gets stuck in the esophagus after swallowing;
- Chest pain;
- The patient regurgitates undigested food.
In children, the following signs appear:
- Unable to feed infants;
- Vomiting;
- Abdominal pain;
- Difficulty swallowing;
- The condition does not improve despite a course of drug therapy;
- Malnutrition, growth retardation, weight loss.
When should you see a doctor?
Call an emergency room if chest pain is accompanied by shortness of breath, jaw or arm, shoulder pain.
You should definitely consult a doctor if you notice symptoms characteristic of eosinophilic esophagitis.
In addition, you should consult a doctor if you have to take heartburn medication twice or more a week.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eosinophilic-esophagitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372197
