A precancerous condition caused by repetitive damage to the esophagus lining.

What is Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the normal lining of the esophagus changes after repeated exposure to stomach acid. The esophagus is the tube that carries food and liquids from your mouth to your stomach.

Over time, chronic acid reflux can damage the lining of the esophagus, causing it to be replaced with cells that are similar to those found in the intestine.

Barrett's esophagus increases the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, but the overall risk of cancer remains low for most people.

What causes Barrett's esophagus?
The exact cause is not fully understood, but Barrett's esophagus most commonly develops in people with chronic Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD occurs when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining over time.

Risk factors for Barrett's esophagus include:

  • Long-standing acid reflux or GERD
  • Obesity
  • Tobacco use
  • Male sex
  • Age over 50
  • Family history of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer

Symptoms of Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus itself usually does not cause symptoms. Most people seek medical care because of symptoms related to GERD.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Frequent heartburn
  • Acid reflux
  • Sour or bitter taste in the mouth
  • Difficulty swallowing in some cases

Diagnosing Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is diagnosed with an upper endoscopy (EGD).

During the procedure, your provider examines the lining of the esophagus using a thin, flexible tube with a camera. Small tissue samples (biopsies) are taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether abnormal cell changes, called dysplasia, are present.

Treatment for Barrett's esophagus
Treatment focuses on controlling acid reflux, preventing further damage to the esophagus and monitoring for changes over time.

Treatment may include:

  • Daily acid-reducing medications
  • Lifestyle changes to reduce reflux symptoms
  • Regular surveillance with upper endoscopy
  • Endoscopic treatment for dysplasia when appropriate

Lifestyle changes may include:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding foods that trigger reflux
  • Quitting smoking
  • Elevating the head of the bed while sleeping

When to seek care
Talk with your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Frequent or long-standing heartburn or acid reflux
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Food getting stuck when swallowing
  • Vomiting blood
  • Black, tarry stools
  • Unintentional weight loss

Early evaluation and treatment can help reduce complications and identify abnormal cell changes before they become more serious.

Contact us
If you have questions about Barrett's esophagus or treatment options, please contact our office at 612-871-1145.