Uncovering Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Five Symptoms You Might Not Know About

Posted By: Noga Askenazi M.D. | Published On: Dec 15, 2025 | Asthma, Featured Article

Medical professional holding sign about eosinophilic esophagitis, highlighting symptoms and diagnosis near Crystal Lake, IL

Eosinophilic Esophagitis, often called EoE, is a chronic allergic condition that impacts the esophagus, causing inflammation due to an accumulation of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. Many people with this condition may not realize the variety of symptoms it can produce, which can sometimes mimic other digestive disorders. Providers Noga Askenazi, Susan Bockman, Meredith Cirrincione, and the team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates S.C. in Crystal Lake and Elgin, Illinois, specialize in diagnosing and managing EoE to help patients find relief. Understanding the subtle and sometimes surprising symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis is key to seeking timely treatment and improving quality of life.

Here are five symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis that you might not know about

1. Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

One of the most common but often overlooked symptoms of EoE is trouble swallowing food, especially solid foods. Patients may feel like food is sticking in their throat or chest. This sensation can lead to discomfort and anxiety around eating, causing people to avoid certain foods or eat more slowly without realizing it is due to EoE.

2. Food Getting Stuck in the Esophagus (Food Impaction)

Food impaction is a more severe symptom related to difficulty swallowing, where a piece of food becomes stuck in the esophagus, sometimes requiring emergency medical treatment. This can happen suddenly and be frightening, particularly when eating meat or other dense foods. Patients may not immediately connect this with EoE, making awareness important.

3. Persistent Heartburn or Acid Reflux

While heartburn and acid reflux are commonly associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), they can also be signs of eosinophilic esophagitis. In EoE, inflammation of the esophagus may cause similar symptoms that do not respond well to typical acid-reducing medications. If you experience ongoing reflux symptoms despite treatment, EoE could be the underlying cause.

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4. Chest Pain Not Related to Heart Issues

Some people with EoE experience chest pain or discomfort that is not related to heart problems. This pain can be mistaken for other conditions, delaying a proper diagnosis. If you have unexplained chest pain that does not improve with usual treatments, it is important to discuss the possibility of eosinophilic esophagitis with your doctor.

5. Difficulty Feeding or Poor Growth in Children

In children, EoE can cause feeding difficulties such as refusing certain foods, gagging, or vomiting. It may also lead to poor growth or delayed weight gain because of discomfort during eating. These signs can be subtle and are often attributed to picky eating or other common childhood issues, so careful evaluation by a specialist is essential.

If you or a loved one in Crystal Lake, or Elgin, IL, is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek expert care. Our team at Advanced Allergy & Asthma Associates S.C. is here to provide thorough evaluation and effective treatment options for eosinophilic esophagitis. Don’t ignore symptoms that impact your eating and quality of life. Call (847) 888-8802 today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief and better health.

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Meredith Cirrincione, MS, PA-C

Meredith Cirrincione is a board certified Physician Assistant and specializes in treating allergies, with a focus on asthma, rashes, environmental allergies, chemical and food allergies. She holds a Masters in Physician Assistant Studies from The Chicago Medical School - Rosalind Franklin University of Health Sciences. She is a Fellow member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants, the Illinois Academy of Physician Assistants, and the Association of PAs in Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. She likes to approach things holistically. She is a strong patient advocate and adored by her patients. She enjoys singing, reading, cooking, and the great outdoors.

Noga Askenazi M.D.

Dr. Noga Askenazi is a nationally recognized asthma and allergy specialist who is board certified in pediatric and adult allergy. Her areas of special interest are innovative treatment of rashes, sinusitis, food allergies, asthma and immune disorders. She was past President of the ISAAI (Illinois Society of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology), works on state and national committees for advancement of the allergy field and is a consultant for Advocate, Ascension Health, Northwestern amongst other health care systems. Her joy is helping patients reach their goals after together determining best treatments. Her staff and patients are a chosen family, and she invests in their happiness. She enjoys gardening, biking and cooking to good music.

Susan Bockman, FNP

Susan Bockman is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner who specializes in treating asthma, allergies, and related skin conditions. With both personal and professional experience in managing allergies, she brings a compassionate and holistic approach to patient care. Susan earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Illinois University and is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society in Nursing. She is deeply committed to supporting families and individuals through comprehensive, empathetic care. Outside the clinic, she enjoys genealogy, long walks with audiobooks, antiquing, and watching football with her family.