Did you know there are different types of allergic reactions to foods? 

Two Categories of Food Allergies

1. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated. Symptoms result from the body’s immune system making antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These IgE antibodies react with a certain food.
2. Non-IgE mediated. Other parts of the body’s immune system react to a certain food. This reaction causes symptoms, but does not involve an IgE antibody. Someone can have both IgE mediated and non-IgE mediated food allergies.

Eosinophilic (ee-uh-sin-uh-fil-ik) esophagitis (EoE) is an inflamed esophagus. The esophagus is a tube from the throat to the stomach. An allergy to a food can cause this condition.

EoE belongs to the category of non-IgE mediated food allergies. 

With EoE, swallowing food can be hard and painful. Symptoms in infants and toddlers are irritability, problems with eating and poor weight gain. Older children may have reflux, vomiting, stomach pain, chest pain and a feeling like food is “stuck” in their throat. The symptoms can occur days or even weeks after eating a food allergen.

EoE is treated by special diets that remove the foods that are causing the condition. Medication may also be used to reduce inflammation.

May 17-23 marks National Eosinophil Awareness Week.
Share this post if you or someone you know is affected by an eosinophilic disorder!

To learn more, visit Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): Questions and Answers. This is a new resource for patients and caregivers managing EoE. It was written in collaboration with the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED).

Kids With Food Allergies hosts a support forum for families with eosinophilic disorders. Parents can find support, tips, and connect with others. Registration is free!

Kids With Food Allergies is a member of the Coalition of Eosinophil Patient Advocacy Groups (C-EOS).