eosinophilia

Eosinophilia is a condition characterized by an abnormally high number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the blood or tissues. Eosinophils play a role in the immune system, particularly in fighting parasites and responding to allergens.

Normal Eosinophil Count: 0-500 cells/µL of blood (1-6% of total white blood cells).

Eosinophilia: Eosinophil count exceeds 500 cells/µL, categorized as:

Mild: 500-1,500 cells/µL.
Moderate: 1,500-5,000 cells/µL.
Severe: >5,000 cells/µL.

Causes of Endometriosis

1. Allergic Conditions

Asthma.
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis).
Drug reactions.

2. Parasitic Infections

Helminths (e.g., roundworms, hookworms).
Protozoan infections.

3. Autoimmune and Inflammatory Disorders

Eosinophilic esophagitis.
Vasculitis (e.g., Churg-Strauss syndrome).
Rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Infections

Fungal infections like Aspergillosis.
Viral infections (e.g., HIV, herpes).

5. Malignancies

Blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

6. Other Causes

Skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis).
Adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease).
Idiopathic hyper-eosinophilic syndrome (HES).

Symptoms of Eosinophilia

Often depends on the underlying cause and severity:

Mild Cases:

May be asymptomatic.

Moderate to Severe Cases:

Fatigue and weakness.
Unexplained weight loss.
Fever
Cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath (if lungs are affected).
Skin rashes or itching.
Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or vomiting (if gastrointestinal tract is involved).
Muscle and joint pain.

Associated Risks and Complications

Tissue Damage: High levels of eosinophils can damage tissues, particularly in the lungs, heart, and gastrointestinal tract.
Hyper-eosinophilic Syndrome (HES): Persistent, severe eosinophilia leading to organ damage.
Secondary Infections: Due to compromised immunity in severe cases.
Asthma and Respiratory Issues: Chronic eosinophilia can exacerbate airway inflammation.

Diagnosis of Eosinophilia

1. Blood Tests

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential to measure eosinophil levels.

2. Further Investigations

Based on Suspected Cause

Parasitic Infections: Stool examination for ova and parasites.
Allergic Conditions: Allergy tests (e.g., skin prick test).
Autoimmune Disorders: ANA (antinuclear antibody) test, ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate).
Malignancies: Bone marrow biopsy.

3. Imaging

X-rays, CT scans, or MRI to detect organ involvement (lungs, gastrointestinal tract).

4. Organ Function Tests

Liver function tests (LFTs).
Kidney function tests.

Ayurvedic Interpretation of Eosinophilia

In Ayurveda, eosinophilia can be understood as an imbalance of Kapha and Pitta doshas, resulting in an overactive immune response. It may also be linked to poor digestion (Agni Mandya), leading to toxin accumulation (Ama), which aggravates the immune system and causes hypersensitivity.

Kapha Dominance: Excessive mucus, respiratory issues, and heaviness.
Pitta Dominance: Inflammation, skin reactions, and burning sensations.
Ama Accumulation: Impaired digestion and sluggish immune response.

Panchakarma Therapies

Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis): To eliminate excess Kapha.
Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Detoxifies Pitta and improves digestion.
Nasya (Nasal Therapy): Administering medicated oils to reduce nasal congestion and respiratory symptoms.

Dietary Guidelines

Avoid: Dairy products, cold foods, fried or processed foods, and heavy-to-digest items that aggravate Kapha.
Include:
- Warm, light, and freshly prepared meals.
- Spices like ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper to enhance digestion.
- Green leafy vegetables, fruits like apples and pomegranates.

Lifestyle Modifications

Practice yoga and pranayama (e.g., Anulom-Vilom, Kapalabhati) to improve respiratory health.
Avoid exposure to allergens or triggers such as dust and smoke.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule and reduce stress through meditation.