Barrett’s Esophagus
What
is it?
Barrett's esophagus is a condition that develops
when the cells in the lining of the esophagus
undergo abnormal changes because of repeated
irritation.
Who
gets it?
People
who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or
inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) are at
risk for developing Barrett’s esophagus.
What
causes it?
When
the lining of the esophagus is repeatedly
irritated, usually by reflux (backward flow) of
stomach acids, its cells undergo a change into
abnormal cells called specialized columnar cells.
This type of cell is precancerous and is not
usually found in humans.
What
are the symptoms?
People
with Barrett's esophagus have frequent heartburn.
They may also vomit, have blood in the vomit or in
the stool, and have difficulty swallowing. In some
cases, the lining of the esophagus becomes so
thick and hard that it is too narrow for
swallowing solid food. This condition is called a
stricture. Some people, however, have no symptoms
at all.
How is
it diagnosed?
To
diagnose Barrett’s esophagus, your doctor will
perform a thorough physical examination and look
at your medical history. He or she should know
about any repeated episodes of heartburn or a
previous diagnosis of GERD or esophagitis. To make
a definite diagnosis, your doctor will examine
your esophagus through a flexible tube called an
endoscope. He or she will also take a small sample
of tissue, called a biopsy, to check for columnar
cells.
What
is the treatment?
There
is currently no cure for Barrett’s esophagus.
Treatment focuses on preventing acid reflux so the
remaining normal cells are not damaged. To do
this, your doctor will prescribe medications to
reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Strictures are treated with dilation, in which a
dilating instrument is used to gently widen the
narrowed opening. Surgery to remove the damaged
part of the esophagus is only recommended when the
first-line treatments are unsuccessful.
Self-care tips
The
cells found in people with Barrett’s esophagus are
precancerous and become cancerous in only a small
percentage of patients. However, because there is
some risk, it is important to have regular
endoscopic exams if you have been diagnosed with
Barrett’s esophagus or if you have a history of
heartburn.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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