About Eosinophilic Gastritis
The exact disease related causes of eosinophilic gastritis are not fully understood. However, research suggests that hypersensitivity may play a role in its development. It is believed that the allergic response found in conditions like asthma, rhinitis, and eczema can damage the intestinal barrier, leading to the slow spread of eosinophils in the digestive tract and subsequent inflammation.
Non-modifiable risk factors are risk factors that cannot be changed. Non modifiable risk factors for eosinophilic gastritis include:
- Age
- Genetic predispositions or family history eosinophilic gastritis or related conditions
Modifiable risk factors are risk factors that can be changed or influenced. Modifiable risk factors for eosinophilic gastritis include:
- Poor dietary habits
- Low physical activity
Remember, these risk factors are based on general observations and may vary from person to person. It's always best to speak with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Common early symptoms of eosinophilic gastritis may include:
- Trouble swallowing
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
- Chest pain
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
As eosinophilic gastritis progresses or reaches a higher severity, additional symptoms may occur. These can include:
- Weight loss
- Malnutrition (poor nutrition)
- Anemia (low red blood cells)
In children, malnutrition due to eosinophilic gastritis may lead to symptoms such as:
- Failure to thrive
- Delayed growth
- Delayed puberty
- Delayed or absent menstruation
It's important to note that eosinophilic gastritis can cause complications such as bowel wall thickening, which may lead to more serious issues like intestinal blockage or tearing. If you experience any new or concerning digestive symptoms, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
To diagnose eosinophilic gastritis, the following examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly performed:
- Physical exam: The healthcare provider will look for physical signs such as pain, swelling, or masses in the body.
- Lab tests: Blood tests may be ordered to check for elevated levels of certain markers like C-reactive protein (a type of protein produced by the liver to show if there is inflammation) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (a type of red blood cell test that shows if there is inflammation). These tests can help in diagnosing the disease.
- Imaging studies: X-rays or MRI scans may be recommended to get a closer look inside the body and identify any abnormalities.
To determine the stage or severity of eosinophilic gastritis, additional examinations, tests, and procedures may include:
- Endoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the digestive tract to visually examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
- Biopsy: During an endoscopy, small tissue samples may be taken for examination under a microscope to confirm the presence of eosinophils and assess the severity of inflammation.
- Elimination diet: Your healthcare provider may recommend removing specific foods from your diet to see if symptoms improve. This can help identify trigger foods that worsen the condition.
- Food allergy testing: Allergy tests may be conducted to determine if specific food allergies are contributing to Eosinophilic Gastritis.
Remember, these are general procedures and recommendations. It's important to speak with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.
The treatment goals for eosinophilic gastritis are to reduce symptoms, control inflammation, improve quality of life, prevent complications, and minimize side effects of treatment. Here are the recommended treatments and how they work:
Medications:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid production, which can help relieve symptoms and reduce inflammation in the stomach wall lining.
- Corticosteroids: Systemic (travels in the bloodstream) corticosteroids or oral (taken by mouth) corticosteroids are commonly used to decrease inflammation in the stomach and reduce eosinophil levels.
Health behavior changes:
- Dietary Modifications: Avoiding trigger foods (foods that start or worsen symptoms) identified through an elimination diet can help reduce symptoms and inflammation.
- Nutritional Support: Ensuring adequate nutrition through a well-balanced diet or nutritional supplements can support overall health and healing.
Other treatments:
- Immunomodulators: In cases where corticosteroids are not effective or well-tolerated, immunomodulatory medications (medications that adjust how the immune system works) may be considered to adjust the immune response and reduce inflammation.
It's important to note that treatment approaches may vary depending on individual factors and response to therapy. Always speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.