Written and reviewed by Dr Ali Zad, FRACP gastroenterologist, Brisbane. Last reviewed November 2026 against current Australian and international guidelines. General information only, not a substitute for personal medical advice.
EoE is often mistaken for reflux. Compare with the symptoms and causes of acid reflux.
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What is eosinophilic oesophagitis?
EoE is a long-term allergic-type inflammation of the oesophagus, where a type of white blood cell (eosinophil) builds up in the lining. It is becoming more common and often occurs in people with asthma, eczema, hay fever or food allergies.
What are the symptoms of EoE?
In adults the most common symptoms are difficulty swallowing and food getting stuck (food bolus impaction). Some people have heartburn or chest pain. Many people eat slowly, chew carefully or drink a lot with meals without realising they are compensating.
How is EoE diagnosed and treated?
EoE is diagnosed with several biopsies taken at gastroscopy. Treatment options include PPIs, swallowed steroid medicines (such as budesonide), elimination diets guided by a dietitian, and stretching (dilatation) of any narrowing. Biologic medicines are an option for some people who do not respond. A repeat gastroscopy with biopsies is usually done to check treatment has worked.
Guideline: AGA-JTF Guidelines for the Management of Eosinophilic Oesophagitis (2020).
Is EoE a food allergy?
EoE is an allergic-type condition, but it is different from a typical food allergy that causes hives or anaphylaxis. Standard skin prick or blood allergy tests do not reliably identify EoE triggers. The most common food triggers are milk, wheat, egg and soy.
Can EoE be cured?
EoE is a long-term condition that usually returns if treatment is stopped. With ongoing treatment most people have few or no symptoms, and it does not increase the risk of oesophageal cancer.
What should I do if food gets stuck?
If food is stuck and you cannot swallow your saliva, go to an emergency department, as the food may need to be removed with an urgent endoscopy. Do not try to force it down with more food. Even if it passes on its own, see your doctor, as this is a common sign of EoE.
Is EoE linked to reflux?
Reflux and EoE can cause similar symptoms and can occur together. Biopsies at gastroscopy help tell them apart. Some people with EoE improve on PPIs, which is why they are often the first treatment tried.
Related procedures and information
- Gastroscopy with Dr Ali Zad
- Oesophageal manometry with Dr Ali Zad
- All digestive health questions and answers
- Patient education videos
Book an appointment
If you have symptoms of eosinophilic oesophagitis, see your GP or book a consultation with gastroenterologist Dr Ali Zad on (07) 2111 2600 or request an appointment online. You can book directly; a GP referral is needed for a Medicare rebate.
Dr Zad consults and performs procedures across Brisbane and Moreton Bay: Brisbane City and Spring Hill, North Lakes, Caboolture, Everton Park, Taringa and Redcliffe and Kippa-Ring.
