Living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Matt’s Journey from Struggle to Strength

For many people, enjoying a meal with friends or family is second nature. But for those living with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), even the simple act of swallowing can feel like a daily battle.

EoE is a chronic, often misunderstood condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus, leading to difficulty swallowing, food impaction, and ongoing discomfort. It not only impacts nutrition but can take a heavy toll on emotional well-being and social life.

In our latest Gastro Girl Podcast episode, we sit down with patient advocate Matt, who opens up about his personal journey navigating life with EoE. His story shines a light on the determination, trial-and-error, and resilience it takes to manage this condition—and the hope that comes with finding the right support and treatment plan.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Matt walks us through his lived experience, from the earliest warning signs to the everyday realities of living with EoE. Along the way, he shares what helped him cope and what he wishes more people understood about this condition.

We discuss:
Getting an Accurate Diagnosis: Why so many patients face delays and misdiagnoses—and what Matt’s journey reveals about persistence.
Managing Triggers: The role of food sensitivities and how identifying triggers can make a real difference in quality of life.
Treatment Strategies: How working with healthcare providers to fine-tune a plan led Matt to better results.
Emotional & Social Impact: The unseen challenges of living with a swallowing disorder—and how to navigate them with resilience.

Why This Conversation Matters
Matt’s story is a powerful reminder that digestive health conditions aren’t just physical—they affect every aspect of life. From avoiding certain foods at social gatherings to coping with anxiety about eating, patients with EoE often feel isolated or misunderstood.

By sharing his journey, Matt offers practical insights and encouragement for anyone living with this condition—or supporting a loved one who is. His openness helps break down stigma, spread awareness, and empower others to seek answers and advocate for themselves.

Tune In
Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with EoE, are supporting someone with the condition, or simply want to understand it better, this episode provides hope, understanding, and actionable tips.

Listen to the full episode now on YouTube or your favorite podcast player.

This episode is sponsored by 

About the Gastro Girl Podcast

The Gastro Girl Podcast is your go-to source for digestible (pun intended) insights on GI health. We share the latest research, expert tips, patient stories, and practical resources — all in a friendly, nonjudgmental way. As the official patient-education partner of the American College of Gastroenterology, we help you and your family move toward better health.

Check out Gastro Girl on YouTube

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or care. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns.

Do you have questions or want to share your own story?  Email us at: podcast@gastrogirl.com