Swallowing Difficulties in Eosinophilic esophagitis

If you’re dealing with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), you may be familiar with the sensation of food sticking in your throat. However, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) in EoE go beyond simple inconvenience and can significantly impact your daily life.

What Causes Swallowing Problems in EoE?

EoE leads to inflammation and narrowing (strictures) of the esophagus due to excess white blood cells (eosinophils). Over time, chronic inflammation may:

• Cause scarring and narrowing.
• Make your esophagus less flexible.
• Result in food getting stuck or difficulty swallowing.

Symptoms Beyond Food Sticking:

• Persistent heartburn
• Painful swallowing (odynophagia)
• Feeling of food slowing or stopping in your chest
• Chest pain unrelated to heart conditions
• Choking or coughing while eating

Why It’s Important to Address Swallowing Issues

• Nutrition: Persistent swallowing difficulty can limit food intake, affecting nutrition and overall health.
• Safety: Repeated choking or food impactions can lead to medical emergencies.
• Quality of Life: Dysphagia can cause anxiety around eating, social embarrassment, and emotional distress.

Treatment and Management Strategies

• Dietary Changes: Identifying and avoiding trigger foods can reduce inflammation and symptoms.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory treatments can decrease swelling and improve esophageal function.
• Endoscopic Procedures: If strictures form, esophageal dilation procedures help widen narrowed areas.

Tips to Manage Swallowing Difficulties

• Eat slowly and chew food thoroughly.
• Stay hydrated during meals.
• Identify and avoid known trigger foods through an elimination diet.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Seek emergency medical help if:

• Food becomes completely stuck.
• You experience severe pain or difficulty breathing.
• Symptoms rapidly worsen or become frequent.

FAQs about Swallowing Difficulties in EoE

Will swallowing issues improve with treatment?

Yes, with proper identification of triggers and treatment, most individuals see significant improvements.

Is dysphagia always present in EoE?

Not always, but it is one of the most common symptoms, especially in adults.

Understanding that swallowing difficulties in EoE are more complex than just food getting stuck empowers you to seek appropriate care, maintain proper nutrition, and regain comfort during meals.

What are you waiting for?  If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment and biologics to help or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!

Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now!  Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!

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Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.

DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.