Barrett’s esophagus is a disorder where acid reflux damages the flat pink lining of the swallowing tube that connects the mouth to the stomach (esophagus), resulting in the lining thickening and turning red. 

The lower esophageal sphincter, an extremely significant valve, sits between the esophagus and the stomach (LES). Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition that develops over time when the LES starts to collapse, causing the esophagus to become damaged by chemicals and acid (GERD). Symptoms like heartburn or regurgitation are frequently present with GERD. Some people’s GERD may cause Barrett’s esophagus by inducing a change in the cells lining their lower esophagus. 

Barrett’s esophagus is linked to a risk of esophageal cancer. Even though there is a low chance of developing esophageal cancer, it is crucial to undergo routine examinations with thorough imaging and extensive esophageal biopsies to look for precancerous cells (dysplasia). To stop esophageal cancer, precancerous cells can be treated if they are found. 

SYMPTOMS

The most frequent cause of Barrett’s esophagus is chronic GERD, which can manifest as any of the following signs and symptoms: 

  • Frequent heartburn and stomach contents coming back up 
  • Having trouble swallowing food 
  • Occasionally, chest pain 

Curiously, only around half of those with Barrett’s esophagus report having significant acid reflux symptoms. You should talk to your doctor about your digestive health and the potential for Barrett’s esophagus.

CAUSES 

The cause of Barrett’s esophagus is uncertain. While many patients with Barrett’s esophagus have had GERD for a long time, many others experience “silent reflux” (which is reflux without any symptoms).  

Whether or not GERD symptoms are present, acid reflux causes chemicals and stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, destroying the tissue and altering the swallowing tube’s lining, which can result in Barrett’s esophagus.  

RISK FACTORS 

Your risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus depends on: 

  • Family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer. 
  • Gender: Barrett’s esophagus is far more common in men. 
  • Race and ethnicity: Compared to people of other races, white people are more likely to get the illness. 
  • Age: Although it can happen at any age, people over 50 are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus. 
  • Acid reflux and persistent heartburn: Medications (Proton pump inhibitors) used for GERD that don’t improve or GERD that necessitates ongoing therapy can both raise the risk of Barrett’s esophagus. 
  • Smoking (now or in the past). 
  • Weighing too much: Your risk is further increased by abdominal obesity. 

DIAGNOSIS 

You can typically find out if you have Barrett’s esophagus with an endoscopy. 

An endoscope, an illuminated tube with a camera at the end, is used to inspect your throat in order to check for any signs of shifting esophageal tissue. Normal esophageal tissue appears to be bright and glossy. Barrett’s esophageal tissue is silky and red.   

Your doctor will take a biopsy of your esophagus. To gauge the degree of change, the biopsied tissue can be examined. 

Doral Health and Wellness Gastroenterology experts specialize in gastrointestinal (GI) and liver disease diagnosis and treatment.

At Doral Health and Wellness, the experts can take care of your gut. Here are the services provided at Doral Health and Wellness 

  • Colonoscopy
  • Colon Cancer Screening
  • Celiac Disease Treatment
  • Sigmoidoscopy 
  • Endoscopy

At Doral Health and Wellness, we have doctors that can help you manage your condition. For more information, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York, 11212, or call us on 1-347-384-5690 or 1-347-868-1016. You can also visit our website at https://doralhw.org or contact us at info@mainwebsite.dialysisny.com if you have any queries.