-It is a disease characterized by an increase in white blood cells on the surface of the esophagus.
-This increase is a response to food, allergen or acid reflux.
SYMPTOMS:
Adults;
-difficulty swallowing
-difficulty chewing
-chest pain (unresponsive to antacids)
-heartburn
-abdominal pain (especially localized to the upper part of the navel)
-not improving with drugs given for gastroesophageal reflux
-returning undigested food from the stomach to the mouth
IN CHILDREN:
-Difficulty in feeding
-Vomiting
-Abdominal pain
-Difficulty swallowing
-Difficulty chewing
-Unresponsive to GERD drugs
-Growth retardation
CAUSE:
It is the development of a reaction in the esophagus against food or pollen.
RISK FACTORS:
-Climate conditions: living in a cold or dry climate
-Spring Seasons: the period when pollen and other allergens are most abundant.
-Gender: more common in males
-Having someone else in the family with eosinophilic esophagitis increases the risk.
-Being allergic or asthmatic.
-Age: Although it is mostly seen in children, it is a disease seen in adults.
COMPLICATIONS:
-Scar tissue formation in the esophagus
-Stenosis in the esophagus
-tear or perforation in the esophagus
DIAGNOSTIC METHODS :
-Endoscopy
-Biopsy
Tests supporting the diagnosis:
-blood test (eosinophil and IgE level)
-antacid Not getting better with medications
-Food allergy test
TREATMENT:
-Staying away from food that causes allergies
-Antacid drugs
-Topical steroid (reduces inflammation in the esophagus)
– If stenosis develops in the esophagus, dilatation treatment is applied.
RECOMMENDED LIFESTYLE CHANGES:
-Having a healthy weight, losing excess weight
-Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger burning in the stomach or esophagus (oily and fried foods, tomatoes, alcohol, chocolate, mint, onions and caffeine)
-Sleeping on a high pillow
