Eosinophilic esophagitis
In eosinophilic esophagitis, one type of white blood cell (eosinophil) accumulates in the lining of the tube connecting the mouth and stomach - the esophagus (esophagus). Accumulation of eosinophils caused by reactions to food, allergens, or gastric acid reflux can cause tissue damage and inflammation in the esophagus. Damaged tissue in the esophagus causes difficulty swallowing or regurgitation of food while swallowing
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic disease of the immune system It was discovered about 20 years ago, but today it is considered one of the most important diseases of the digestive system The disease is being researched to improve diagnosis and treatment
In the past, doctors believed that the symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis were caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease. However, it is now believed that eosinophilic esophagitis is a different disease with different causes The disease is an allergic reaction in which the lining of the esophagus reacts to allergens such as food or dust.
Eosinophil is a type of white blood cell found in the digestive system However, in eosinophilic esophagitis, they multiply in the esophagus Eosinophils secrete a protein that causes inflammation As a result of this process, esophageal scarring, narrowing, and excess fibrous tissue may develop. As a result, the patient has difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or the food sticks when swallowing There are other symptoms as well
Patients with eosinophilic esophagitis may have food allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis, or chronic respiratory disease. Doctors also believe that some people are more genetically predisposed to developing the disease than others
In the last decade, the number of people with eosinophilic esophagitis has increased significantly. At first, researchers believed that this increase was due to improvements in endoscopic techniques and improvements in other procedures. However, studies show that the number of the disease itself is increasing, as in the case of asthma and other allergies
Symptoms:
In adulthood: - difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- regurgitation of food in the esophagus
- pain in the chest area, which is mainly localized centrally and does not respond to antacids
- constant
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Regurgitation of food in the esophagus
- Lack of response to medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Growth and development problems (improper growth in height, malnutrition and weight gain) These symptoms may indicate a heart attack
Make an appointment with your doctor if you experience frequent symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis If you take over-the-counter medicines for heartburn more than 2 times a week, talk to your doctor.
