Understanding Eosinophilic Oesophagitis
This is an allergic type of inflammation of the oesophagus (food pipe) that requires specialised diagnosis and treatment.
Allergic Inflammation
This is an allergic type of inflammation of the oesophagus (food pipe) that can occur in children who have allergies or where there is a family background of allergies.
Diagnosis Requirements
Symptoms might include difficulty swallowing and it can only be diagnosed on gastroscopy, requiring specialised evaluation.
Treatment Options
Treatment may include medications and/or dietary changes, tailored to your child's specific needs and allergy profile.
Allergic Condition
Inflammation of food pipe
Gastroscopy Required
For diagnosis
Common Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of eosinophilic oesophagitis is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.
Difficulty Swallowing
The most common symptom, making it hard for children to eat normally and comfortably.
Food Impaction
Food getting stuck in the oesophagus due to inflammation and narrowing.
Chest Pain
Discomfort or pain in the chest area, especially when eating or swallowing.
Nausea
Feeling sick or queasy, particularly after eating certain foods.
Poor Appetite
Reduced interest in eating due to discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
Weight Loss
Unintentional weight loss due to reduced food intake and poor nutrition.
Risk Factors
Understanding the factors that may increase the risk of developing eosinophilic oesophagitis.
Personal Allergies
Children who have existing allergies
Family Background
Family history of allergies
Treatment Options
Treatment may include medications and/or dietary changes, tailored to your child's specific needs.
Medications
Prescription medications to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms effectively.
Dietary Changes
Identifying and eliminating trigger foods that may worsen the condition.
Symptoms That May Indicate EoE
Eosinophilic oesophagitis can only be definitively diagnosed by gastroscopy with biopsy. Seek evaluation if your child has:
- ✓Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- ✓Food getting stuck in the throat or chest
- ✓Recurrent food impaction (food blocking the oesophagus)
- ✓Persistent heartburn not responding to reflux treatment
- ✓Vomiting or regurgitation
- ✓Feeding refusal or food avoidance in young children
- ✓Failure to thrive or poor weight gain
- ✓Known food allergies or eczema alongside swallowing difficulties
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
- →Detailed allergy, feeding, and symptom history
- →Physical examination
- →Allergy testing referral if indicated (skin prick test or patch testing)
- →Gastroscopy with oesophageal biopsies to confirm diagnosis
- →Dietary elimination therapy (six-food elimination diet or elemental formula)
- →Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) trial
- →Ongoing monitoring with repeat gastroscopy to assess treatment response
Referral & Medicare: A current GP or paediatrician referral is required for Medicare rebates. Please bring your referral and any allergy test results.