Stuck Food, Burning, and Discomfort: Are You Dealing With EoE?

Eosinophilic esophagitis—often called EoE—is a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus that is becoming increasingly common in both adults and children. Many patients are surprised to learn that their trouble swallowing, repeated food sticking, or burning in the chest is not just reflux, but a treatable allergic condition. At Husney Medical, we diagnose and manage EoE using the latest evidence-based approaches, personalized diets, and effective medications designed to reduce inflammation and restore comfortable swallowing.

 What Exactly Is EoE?

Eosinophilic esophagitis occurs when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions, build up in the lining of the esophagus. This leads to swelling, irritation, and scarring over time. EoE is commonly triggered by certain foods or environmental allergens and often coexists with asthma, eczema, or seasonal allergies.

Common Symptoms of EoE

Because symptoms develop slowly, many patients don’t realize how significant the problem is until they undergo an endoscopy. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing (especially solid foods)

• Food getting stuck in the throat or chest

• Chest burning or discomfort

• Chronic reflux not improving with medication

• Upper abdominal discomfort

• Avoiding solid foods like bread or meat

• Sensitivity to specific foods, such as dairy or wheat

Children may show picky eating, slow eating, vomiting, or poor weight gain.

If these symptoms sound familiar, an endoscopy can provide answers and relief.

How EoE Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis requires an EGD (upper endoscopy) with biopsies that show elevated eosinophils. During endoscopy, we may see:

• Rings in the esophagus

• Narrowing (strictures)

• White plaques

• Furrows (deep lines)

• Fragile tissue

At Husney Medical, we ensure a precise diagnosis and explain findings in a clear, patient-friendly way.

 Treatment Options: Effective and Personalized

EoE treatment involves reducing inflammation and preventing long-term complications such as strictures. The two pillars of treatment are swallowed steroid therapy and diet modification.

1. Medication: Swallowed Steroid Therapy (e.g., Pulmicort)

Many patients improve significantly with swallowed Budesonide (Pulmicort) mixed with honey or syrup, forming a thick slurry that coats the esophagus.

Benefits include:

• Reduces inflammation

• Improves swallowing

• Prevents food impaction

• Helps heal the lining of the esophagus

Patients take the mixture twice daily and avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes afterward to maximize results.

2. Dietary Management

Diet is a major component of long-term EoE control. Trigger foods vary, but common culprits include:

• Milk

• Wheat

• Eggs

• Soy

• Nuts

• Seafood

We guide patients through several evidence-based diet options, such as:

• One-Food Elimination (commonly dairy-free)

Good for mild cases or patients who want a simple start.

• Two-Food Elimination (dairy + wheat)

Effective for many patients with minimal restriction.

• Four- or Six-Food Elimination Diets

More comprehensive for persistent inflammation.

• Step-Up Diet Approach

Start small and increase only if symptoms persist.

We work with each patient to tailor a realistic and sustainable diet plan.

 Follow-Up & Long-Term Care

EoE is a chronic condition. Many patients need ongoing maintenance therapy to:

• Prevent flare-ups

• Avoid strictures

• Keep swallowing smooth and comfortable

• Preserve quality of life

We recommend routine follow-ups and, when appropriate, repeat EGD to ensure healing.

Why choose Us? 

• Personalized EoE treatment plans

• Expertise in endoscopy and GI conditions

• Compassionate, patient-centered care

• Clear education on diet and medication

• Ongoing monitoring to keep symptoms under control

We help patients understand their body, manage their triggers, and get back to eating comfortably.

 Book Your Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing trouble swallowing, food sticking, or reflux that won’t go away, EoE may be the cause—and treatment is available.
Call Dr Husney at 718-872-5270 to schedule your evaluation or endoscopy today.