EoE is a chronic condition that occurs when a type of white blood cell called the eosinophil abnormally accumulates in the tissue of the esophagus.
Environmental allergies to substances such as dust mites, animals, pollen and molds can play a role in EoE. For some patients, it may seem like their EoE is worse during pollen seasons. Allergy testing for these common environmental allergies is often part of the EoE evaluation.
Similarly, foods can play a role in the inflammation seen in EoE. Our physicians will wokr closely with your gastroenterologist to help you identify concurrent food allergies and navigate various treatment options, including dietary therapies such as elimination diets.
What is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)?
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease of the esophagus. Your esophagus is the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to the stomach. If you have EoE, white blood cells called eosinophils build up in your esophagus. This causes damage and inflammation, which can cause pain and may lead to trouble swallowing and food getting stuck in your throat.
EoE is rare. But because it is a newly recognized disease, more people are now getting diagnosed with it. Some people who think that they have reflux (GERD) may actually have EoE.
What causes eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)?
Researchers are not certain about the exact cause of EoE. They think that it is an immune system/allergic reaction to foods or to substances in your environment, such as dust mites, animal dander, pollen, and molds. Certain genes may also play a role in EoE.
