Barrett’s Esophagus: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What is Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. In Barrett’s esophagus, the normal lining becomes more like the lining of the intestine. This change often happens after long-term acid reflux or heartburn. Because of this, Barrett’s esophagus can increase the risk of a rare type of cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma. However, most people with Barrett’s esophagus do not get cancer.

Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus

Many people with Barrett’s esophagus do not notice any symptoms. Often, the signs are related to acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Still, it is important to watch for symptoms. For example, you may notice:

Frequent heartburn

Regurgitation of food or sour liquid

Difficulty swallowing

Chest pain (less common)

Chronic cough or hoarseness

If you have these symptoms often, you should talk to your doctor. Early detection of Barrett’s esophagus can help prevent serious problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

Barrett’s esophagus usually develops after long-term acid reflux. Over time, stomach acid damages the lining of the esophagus. As a result, the body tries to heal by changing the cells. Several factors can raise your risk, such as:

Having GERD for many years

Being over age 50

Being male

Being white

Smoking

Being overweight or obese

Having a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer

Not everyone with acid reflux will get Barrett’s esophagus. However, knowing your risks can help you take action early.

How Barrett’s Esophagus is Diagnosed

Doctors use a test called endoscopy to diagnose Barrett’s esophagus. During this test, a thin, flexible tube with a camera goes down your throat. The doctor looks at the lining of your esophagus and may take small tissue samples (biopsies). These samples help confirm if the cells have changed. Sometimes, other tests check for cancer or other problems. If you have long-term acid reflux, your doctor may suggest regular endoscopies to watch for changes.

Treatment Options

Barrett’s esophagus treatment depends on your risk of cancer and the changes in your cells. Your doctor may suggest:

Medications to reduce stomach acid, such as proton pump inhibitors

Regular endoscopies to monitor the esophagus

Procedures to remove or destroy abnormal cells, like radiofrequency ablation or endoscopic resection

Surgery in rare cases, if there is a high risk of cancer

Most people manage Barrett’s esophagus with medicine and regular check-ups. Your doctor will choose the best plan for you.

Lifestyle and Prevention Tips

While you cannot always prevent Barrett’s esophagus, healthy habits can lower your risk. For example, you can:

Maintain a healthy weight

Eat smaller meals and avoid late-night eating

Limit spicy, fatty, or acidic foods

Quit smoking

Limit alcohol

Raise the head of your bed to reduce nighttime reflux

Take medications as prescribed for acid reflux

These steps can help control acid reflux and may slow changes in the esophagus.

When to See a Doctor

If you have frequent heartburn or difficulty swallowing, it is important to see a doctor early. At Dr. Ajmere Liver & Gastro Clinic, early treatment of acid reflux helps reduce the risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. If Barrett’s esophagus is already present, regular monitoring at Dr. Ajmere Liver & Gastro Clinic allows doctors to detect changes early and lower the risk of cancer.

In summary, Barrett’s esophagus is a serious condition linked to long-term acid reflux, but with early diagnosis and proper care, most people manage it well. Consult a gastroenterologist at Dr. Ajmere Liver & Gastro Clinic for personalised advice on Barrett’s esophagus.