Barrett’s Esophagus occurs when the normal tissue lining the esophagus is replaced with tissue similar to the lining of the intestines. This change is usually a result of chronic acid reflux, which damages the esophageal lining over time. Though it doesn’t cause symptoms, it often develops in people with GERD.
Barrett’s Esophagus is relatively uncommon, affecting about 1% to 2% of the population. In America, there are about 30 million people who have reflux disease, the most common long-term gastrointestinal disease. Barrett’s esophagus will happen in about 5% of patients with ongoing GERD/gastroesophageal reflux disease or esophagus inflammation.
Most people with acid reflux don’t develop this condition. However, in patients with frequent acid reflux, the normal cells in the esophagus may eventually be replaced by cells that are similar to cells in the intestine to become Barrett’s esophagus.
This condition doesn’t cause specific symptoms on its own, but it is often associated with GERD symptoms, including:
It is typically diagnosed through an upper endoscopy, where a camera is used to examine the esophagus, and biopsies are taken to confirm cellular changes.
This condition cannot be completely reversed, but treatments like acid suppression, lifestyle changes, and endoscopic procedures can manage the condition and reduce cancer risk.
Chronic GERD causes stomach acid to frequently flow into the esophagus, damaging its lining over time, which can lead to Barrett’s Esophagus.
No, most people with Barrett’s Esophagus do not develop esophageal cancer. However, it does increase the risk, which is why regular monitoring is crucial.
Lifestyle modifications such as losing weight, quitting smoking, avoiding foods that trigger acid reflux, and eating smaller meals can help manage GERD and reduce the risk of Barrett’s Esophagus progression.
Barrett’s Esophagus (BE) is an acquired disorder that develops over time and is usually diagnosed around age 60, but half of people with BE have it by age 40. Some risk factors for developing BE include: having a family history of BE, being older than 55, having GERD, smoking, being overweight, etc.
The treatment for Barrett’s Esophagus includes lifestyle and dietary changes, medication, surgery, endoscopic therapy, cryoablation therapy, and endoscopic surveillance.
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