Cause 6: Allergies
Allergies are typically associated with sneezing, itching, or rashes. But there’s a lesser-known allergic condition directly impacting the esophagus called eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Rooted in an overactive immune response, this condition sees the esophagus inundated with eosinophils, a type of white blood cell.
EoE often stems from food or environmental allergens. When an individual with this predisposition consumes or gets exposed to a trigger, their immune system overreacts. The esophagus, in turn, becomes a battlefield, with eosinophils congregating and causing inflammation.
Symptomatically, EoE can be quite deceptive. Many of its manifestations, such as difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck in the throat, or heartburn, can mimic other esophageal conditions. However, what sets EoE apart is its link to other allergic conditions like asthma, eczema, or hay fever.
Diagnosing EoE usually involves an endoscopy, where biopsies are taken to assess eosinophil levels. Treatment focuses on identifying and avoiding allergens, be it certain food groups or environmental factors. Steroids might also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms. (5)
