EOE is a chronic condition that affects the function of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Inflammatory cells or white cells, also called eosinophils, are attracted into the lining of the esophagus, causing inflammation and swelling.

Discomfort caused by EOE can significantly impact the quality of life.

Having regular difficulty in swallowing can be associated with a rare & chronic condition called eosinophilic esophagitis or EoE. In this video by Canadian Health and Family we hear from Dr. David Armstrong to learn more about this little-known condition which is rising in prevalence.

Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis

To learn more about pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis, watch our CDHF Talks on the subject. In this series of videos, gastroenterologist Dr. Vishal Avinashi goes over what Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis (Pediatric EoE) is, the signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and the treatment options. He will also be answering questions specifically about managing EOE in children.

• The most common symptom of EOE is difficulty swallowing (or dysphagia). A less common symptom is pain while swallowing (odynophagia).
• Because symptoms are often confounded with GERD, it is important to visit a gastroenterologist for a proper diagnosis.
• A diagnosis is made after an examination of tissue samples; biopsies taken through an endoscopy.
• When left untreated, EOE is associated with inflammation and the persistence of symptoms. This can cause difficulties eating food in the future.

Treatments can lead to a significant improvement in quality of life and reduce the likelihood of further problems. One treatment option is the dietary elimination of milk, wheat, nuts, soy, seafood and eggs. The main group of treatments for EoE are steroids including pills and inhalers.

JORVEZA is the first and only approved tablet for EoE treatment. It is taken twice a day to improve symptoms of EoE.

• EoE impacts around 15,000 Canadians.
• Many people living with EoE are believed to be undiagnosed.
• EoE impacts people of all ages. Men are often affected by EoE more than women.
• EoE is the most common cause of difficulty swallowing.

What triggers EoE?

Some food products including wheat, milk, nuts, soy, and seafood may trigger EoE. To learn what may be a trigger for you, dietary elimination is recommended.

Does Eosinophilic Esophagitis go away?

While there is no definite cure for EoE, taking JORVEZA can significantly improve patient symptoms and quality of life.