Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the inner lining of the esophagus abnormally changes. It is usually due to damage caused by ongoing acid reflux and acid exposure. Sometimes Barrett’s esophagus is found in patients who do not have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus is important because patients with this condition have a small risk of developing esophageal cancer. Simple endoscopic procedures are available to treat advanced cases of Barrett’s esophagus and prevent esophageal cancer. The key to treatment is early detection.
Symptoms
No symptoms are associated with Barrett’s esophagus because acid reflux is the most common cause of Barrett’s esophagus. There are signs and symptoms to watch for that may lead to developing Barrett’s esophagus. Those symptoms include:
- Diagnosis of GERD
- Frequent heartburn or acid reflux
- Heartburn that gets worse
- Difficulty or painful swallowing
- Chest pain
- Blood in stool
- Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosing Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus is diagnosed by a simple endoscopy procedure under general anesthesia. A small flexible scope is introduced through the mouth to evaluate the lining of the esophagus and collect biopsies for testing. This tissue analysis is used to determine the extent of abnormal cell change, which ranges from no dysplasia to high-grade dysplasia.
The current grading system for Barrett’s esophagus is as follows:
- No Dysplasia: Barrett’s esophagus is detected without precancerous changes.
- Low-Grade Dysplasia: There are minor precancerous changes.
- High-Grade Dysplasia: There are extensive precancerous changes with a high risk of developing cancer.
Treatment
If Barrett’s esophagus is identified, it usually only requires surveillance every one to two years. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes or treatment for other conditions like GERD.
When dysplasia is detected, treatment to remove the abnormal cells is typically recommended. This can be done via radiofrequency ablation, which is an endoscopic procedure using radiofrequency waves to eradicate the damaged tissue. Other options include endoscopic resection and cryotherapy. Patients who undergo treatment for Barrett’s esophagus will also require regular monitoring.
Lifestyle Changes and Prevention
Patients can make a number of healthy changes to control GERD and reduce their risk of disease progression to Barrett’s esophagus.
- Stop smoking.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Avoid:
- Foods that trigger acid reflux.
- Eating large meals.
- Lying down within a few hours of eating.
Prevention may not always be possible given that some patients do not present with any symptoms. However, proper treatment for those who do have acid reflux or GERD is the best way to prevent developing Barrett’s esophagus.
The team at GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C., treats multiple conditions and diseases of the GI tract. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care you can trust. To schedule an appointment, call (318) 631-9121 or visit gis.md/appointment-request.