Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOS) Treatment in Burbank, CA
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects your esophagus - the tube allowing food to pass from your mouth to your stomach. Once thought to be a condition specific to children, more and more adults have been suspected of living with eosinophilic esophagitis.
Symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOS)
In a nutshell, EOS begins when the esophagus is exposed to certain foods and/or allergens. A type of white blood cell (WBC) present in your digestive system (Eosinophil) then start to reproduce in your esophagus, causing a narrowing of the airway, inflammation , and even scaring. Specific symptoms include:
- Dysphagia (trouble swallowing)
- Chest pain
- Severe, unremitting heartburn
- Abdominal pain
- Involuntary regurgitation
- Vomiting (child symptom)
These symptoms may mimic a heart attack . If you experience any of these symptoms seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
What Causes EOS?
The cause of EOS is still unconfirmed, many physicians thought Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) was the culprit, but it appears allergies and genetics may play a role.
People with asthma , allergies, and chronic respiratory diseases make up most of those who suffer from eosinophilic esophagitis, with the number of cases alarmingly growing each year. The major risk factors include a family history of EOS, allergies, asthma, if you're male, and reside in a dry, cold climate. The start of allergy season may also jump-start the onset or worsening of EOS.
How Will My Doctor Test for EOS?
Testing for EOS is relatively straight forward, the first step is to rule out GERD (those with GERD typically do not also present with EOS). An endoscopy is performed to visually inspect the esophagus for signs of EOS, however in some cases your esophagus may be asymptomatic. This is why a biopsy may be performed as well, where a small sample of your esophageal lining is taken and analyzed. Blood tests , food allergy tests , or a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) may also be administered.
Alternative and integrative medicine have recommended acupuncture as well as stress management as ways to curb and help prevent the symptoms of EOS. Patients are also encouraged to begin an elimination diet to remove allergens and food sensitivites from their diet.
Request more information from a trained health provider today. Call (424) 365-1800 or contact Vitality Integrative Medicine online.
Vitality Integrative Medicine
Address
4849 Van Nuys BlvdSuite 104
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
(424) 365-1800
www.vitalityintegrative.com
Hours
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8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Tue:
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Wed:
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Thu:
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri:
8:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat:
8:00 am - 12:00 pm