Allergic Esophagitis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Allergic esophagitis
is a condition that causes your esophagus to swell and narrow when your body reacts to allergens. An allergen is anything you are allergic to, such as certain foods, dust, or pollen.
Common signs and symptoms:
- Trouble swallowing
- Throat pain during swallowing
- Food stuck in the esophagus
- Heartburn or chest pain
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- Food is stuck in your throat.
- You have chest pain.
Seek care immediately if:
- You vomit blood.
- Your bowel movements are black and sticky.
- You feel weak or dizzy.
Call your doctor if:
- You have a fever.
- You have white patches on your tongue and inside your mouth.
- You lose weight without trying.
- It is hard to swallow or it hurts to swallow, even after treatment.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment:
Allergic esophagitis may not go away completely. Treatment may help relieve your symptoms.
- Steroid medicine may help decrease swelling in your esophagus. You will swallow this medicine so it coats your esophagus.
- Stomach acid medicine helps keep heartburn symptoms under control.
- Dilatation is a procedure used when the esophagus narrows from swelling. An endoscope is placed into your mouth and down your throat. Tools on the endoscope press against the tissues to widen your esophagus. Dilatation can improve your symptoms but will not stop allergic esophagitis from happening.
Food changes:
You may need to stop eating certain foods for a while to see if your symptoms improve. Start eating these foods again one at a time as directed. If certain foods cause your symptoms, do not eat them. Some common examples are dairy, nuts, eggs, and seafood. You may need to change what you eat to relieve your symptoms. You may need to see a dietitian to help you get the right amount of nutrients.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Your doctor may refer you to a stomach specialist, allergist, or dietitian. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your follow-up visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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