Eosinophilic Esophagitis

For personalized care and world-class medical treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis, Peak Gastroenterology Associates offers world-class care with your health and well-being at the forefront of every treatment.

What Is Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune system disease characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. This condition occurs when a type of white blood cell, called an eosinophil, builds up in the esophagus as a response to allergens or acid reflux, leading to damage and dysfunction of the esophageal tissue.

What Causes Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

The exact causes of eosinophilic esophagitis are not fully understood but are believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune factors. Some of the known triggers for this condition include:

Allergens: Food allergens are common triggers, with dairy, eggs, wheat, and soy being notable contributors
Environmental Allergens: Such as pollen, dust mites, and molds
Acid Reflux: This can exacerbate or contribute to the symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis can vary with age and may include:

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or food getting stuck
Chest pain that is not related to heart disease
Reflux that does not respond to standard reflux medications
Failure to thrive (in children) or weight loss (in adults)
Vomiting and abdominal pain

How Is Eosinophilic Esophagitis Treated?

The treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis are focused on reducing eosinophil counts in the esophagus and managing symptoms, which can include:

Dietary Management: Avoidance of known allergens based on allergy testing and dietary response.
Medications: Steroids to reduce inflammation or proton pump inhibitors to manage acid reflux.
Dilation: For cases where esophageal narrowing has occurred, to improve swallowing.

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Why Choose Us?

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, we are committed to delivering exceptional care tailored to the needs of each patient with eosinophilic esophagitis. Our multidisciplinary team includes gastroenterologists, allergists, and dietitians who work together to create personalized treatment plans. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments ensure you receive the highest standard of care in a supportive and understanding environment.

If you suffer from swallowing problems when eating or food gets stuck in your throat, you may have eosinophilic esophagitis. At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, our team of GI doctors offers state-of-the-art, patient-focused care to treat and resolve eosinophilic esophagitis in Denver, Colorado Springs, Lone Tree, and the rest of the state.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis FAQ

What is eosinophilic esophagitis?

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic condition affecting your esophagus, a tube that travels from your mouth to your stomach. It’s associated with white blood cell buildup in the esophagus, which can lead to tissue damage and swallowing problems. Treatment can relieve your symptoms and prevent complications.

What are the symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis?

The following signs and symptoms are often associated with eosinophilic esophagitis:

Heartburn
Abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or swallowing
Food getting stuck in your esophagus
Persistent chest pain
Acid reflux
Vomiting
Failure to thrive in children

Symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis can range from mild to severe. Possible complications associated with untreated eosinophilic esophagitis include the narrowing of the esophagus, scarring, and other forms of esophagus damage.

What are the risk factors for eosinophilic esophagitis?

Anybody can develop eosinophilic esophagitis, but the following factors increase your risk of experiencing it:

Having allergies or asthma
Being male
Living in a cold or dry climate
Family history of eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms are more common in the spring and fall, possibly due to higher levels of allergens during these seasons.

How is eosinophilic esophagitis diagnosed?

Our GI specialist will review your symptoms and medical history to determine if you have eosinophilic esophagitis. They will complete a physical exam and may use endoscopy, biopsy, or blood tests to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis. Endoscopy utilizes a thin, lighted tube with a camera attached to it to view the inside of your esophagus.

What is the treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis?

Your personalized eosinophilic esophagitis treatment plan depends on the severity of your condition. Your Peak Gastroenterology Associates provider might recommend:

Dietary Changes: Changing your diet may alleviate symptoms associated with eosinophilic esophagitis. Your doctor might recommend avoiding certain foods, such as wheat products or dairy foods, to reduce inflammation.
Lifestyle Changes: In addition to altering your diet, your gastroenterologist may suggest losing weight, avoiding heartburn-related foods, practicing relaxation techniques, and elevating the head of your bed.
Medications: Certain medicines, such as proton-pump inhibitors or topical steroids, may alleviate eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms.
Dilation: If your esophagus is too narrow, your doctor might suggest dilation to widen it and make swallowing easier.

If unpleasant symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis make eating and swallowing difficult, schedule an appointment with the expert gastroenterology team at Peak Gastroenterology Associates over the phone or online today.