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Eosinophilic esophagitis, also known as EoE, is a chronic disease characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Diet can greatly impact the severity of EoE, with certain food items triggering intense throat inflammation. Medicines such as Eohilia can be taken to help treat EoE.
Foods to Avoid Due to EoE-Related Throat Inflammation
Dairy Products
Dairy is a common trigger for EoE and can cause significant inflammation in the esophagus. This includes all forms of dairy, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, which can worsen symptoms like throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
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Wheat
Wheat contains gluten, which has been known to irritate the esophagus and lead to inflammation in people with EoE. Foods made with wheat, such as bread, pasta and cereals, are best avoided.
Eggs
Eggs are another common allergen that can trigger EoE symptoms. Consuming eggs can cause esophageal inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort during swallowing.
Soy
Soy products are often found in processed foods and can be a hidden trigger for EoE. Soy protein can lead to inflammation in the throat, making it important to avoid foods like tofu, soy milk and soy-based products.
Peanuts and Tree Nuts
Nuts are known to be allergenic and can provoke inflammatory responses in the esophagus for those with EoE. Both peanuts and tree nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, should be avoided to prevent throat inflammation.
Seafood
For some individuals with EoE, seafood can trigger allergic reactions and esophageal inflammation. This includes fish and shellfish, which can lead to worsening symptoms.
Certain Fruits and Vegetables
While fruits and vegetables are generally healthy, some, especially when raw, can cause throat irritation in individuals with EoE. Fruits like apples and vegetables like celery and tomatoes are examples of potential triggers.
Corn
Corn and corn-based products–such as cornmeal and corn syrup–can cause inflammation in the esophagus, contributing to symptoms like throat pain and difficulty swallowing.
Beef
Beef can be a trigger for some individuals with EoE. Consuming beef can cause esophageal irritation and should be avoided if identified as a trigger.
Processed Foods
Processed foods often contain multiple allergens and additives that can exacerbate EoE symptoms. These foods can cause throat inflammation and are best avoided for those managing EoE.
Highly Acidic Foods
Foods that are especially acidic, such as tomatoes or citric fruits, can trigger excessive throat inflammation and worsen symptoms of EoE.
Treatment Options
Some of the most common treatment options for EoE include:
Dietary Management
- Elimination diet: Removing common food allergens from the diet to identify triggers, such as milk and dairy, wheat, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish.
- Elemental diet: A temporary liquid diet consisting of amino acid-based formulas, often used in severe cases. Research suggests that an elemental diet is highly effective for both adults and children with EoE, with remission rates of up to 96%.
- Reintroduction: Gradually reintroducing foods to identify specific triggers.
Medications
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Often used to reduce acid production and inflammation.
- Topical steroids: Swallowed steroids (like fluticasone or budesonide) to reduce esophageal inflammation.
- Eohilia: Eohilia is a prescription medication used to treat EoE by reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms.
Endoscopic Dilation
A procedure to stretch the esophagus if it has become narrowed due to inflammation and scarring. This procedure should relieve blockages, making eating and swallowing much easier.
Monitoring
Regular follow-ups with an allergist and gastroenterologist to manage the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
EoE Management
Managing Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) requires careful attention to your diet and symptoms. By avoiding common trigger foods like dairy, wheat and nuts, and by working closely with your healthcare team, you can reduce throat inflammation and improve your quality of life.
Medications and procedures like endoscopic dilation can also play a key role in managing EoE, making it easier to enjoy meals without discomfort. Regular monitoring and treatment adjustments are essential to keeping EoE under control and ensuring you stay on the path to better health.
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