The diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis is made when specialists find an abnormal quantity of eosinophils in the esophageal biopsy tissue. How many eosinophils are considered irregular is heavily debated. It stands between less than 15 to 25 but the common agreements stand at less than 20. This makes it diagnosable. Normally, there are no eosinophils in the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux is associated with 5-10 eosinophils in the lower esophagus but if they are found to be higher than that then the chances of you having eosinophilic esophagitis are very likely. That said, eosinophilic esophagitis is quite difficult to treat.
The best way to treat the disease is by identifying and removing food that causes food allergies in patients. Food that undergoes allergy testing is disposed of. Many people who are vulnerable to this disease have to adhere to a strict elimination diet.
In rare situations, basic amino acid diets as a form of Eosinophilic Esophagitis treatment are recommended. They are added to a liquid for consumption. Steroid intake offers relief but it is temporary. Many opt for topical steroids that cannot be absorbed or are entirely absorbed in the bloodstream as the better alternative. Fluticasone propionate is an effective medicine as well, as a nasal steroid. You can spray it in your mouth and swallow it twice a day. But you need to follow it up by rinsing your mouth. Ensure that you spit out the water instead of swallowing it. You need to avoid eating or drinking in the next hour.
Food allergy is the primary cause of eosinophilic esophagitis. This is why it is also called allergic esophagitis. Patients who experience food allergies be it one or more through consistent testing are diagnosed with the disease. Sometimes the blood tests can be negative which is why patch skin testing is another option that will have a positive test. Problem food is confronted with a re-challenge or Eosinophilic Esophagitis diet. Many patients with a family history of food allergies are likely to suffer from this condition.
