Esophagitis, or eosinophilic esophagitis, is a chronic disease that affects the immune system. Eosinophil, a type of white blood cell, builds up in the lining of the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (the esophagus). This white blood cell buildup is caused by an allergic reaction to food and other allergens, as well as acid reflux. It can also inflame and injure the tissue of the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow (a condition also known as dysphasia) and actually cause food to get stuck in your through while eating.
Esophagitis has many symptoms, however, some may differ between children and adults. For children the signs of esophagitis can include:
For adults, common signs include:
The chances of developing eosinophilic esophagitis are increased based on a number of lifestyle and genetic factors. This condition is more common in men than women. A family history of esophagitis can also increase your odds of experiencing esophagitis. Allergies, climates, and seasons also play significant roles in the odds and severity of esophagitis symptoms. Dry, cold climates see higher rates of diagnosis. Also spring, summer, and fall typically have more pollen and other allergens that can aggravate the Eosinophil in your esophagus.
While esophagitis has its own specific issues, it can create peripheral health concerns as well. As inflammation and other injuries to the esophagus occur, the subsequent scarring of the esophagus lining can narrow the path. This increases the likelihood of food getting stuck while swallowing. Furthermore, significant damage of the esophagus can occur from routine procedures like an endoscopy. Tearing and perforations in the lining of the esophagus can also occur through retching as food becomes caught in the throat.
Depending on the type of esophagitis, there are several types of treatment methods. For infectious esophagitis, a medicine will be prescribed to treat a fungal, viral, bacterial, or parasitic infection. For eosinophilic esophagitis proton pump inhibitors, steroids, and dietary management can be effective in alleviating the symptoms of this condition. For reflux esophagitis, both prescription and non-prescription medications to alleviate acid reflux and other conditions like GERD can be beneficial. Surgery can also be an option to improve the condition and health of the esophagus.
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