Many patients come into our offices with trouble eating daily. This should not be tolerated or ignored. Call Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida for Barret’s esophagus treatment today.
Overview:
Barret’s esophagus is a condition that your local gastroenterologist can most likely treat. It is a condition in which the flat pink lining of the esophagus becomes damaged by acid reflux. This causes the lining to thicken and become red.
As a review, the esophagus is the swallowing tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Between the esophagus and the stomach, there is a critically important valve. This valve is called the esophageal sphincter.
For short, the esophageal sphincter is shortened to LES. As time goes on, the LES may begin to malfunction. The LES failure leads to acid and chemical damage of the esophagus. This damage is a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD for short.
Risks for Barret’s esophagus and esophageal cancer:
GERD is often found with symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation. In some people, GERD can trigger a change in cells lining the lower esophagus. The change in cells is what we call Barret’s esophagus.
Barret’s esophagus is associated with an increase risk of developing esophageal cancer due to the changing of cells according to the Mayo Clinic. The risk of developing esophageal cancer is small, but it is important to have regular checkups with careful imaging and extensive biopsies of the esophagus to check for precancerous cells. This is called dysplasia in the medical field.
If precancerous cells are discovered, they can be treated to prevent esophageal cancer. Stay on a routine with getting this checked if you have been diagnosed with Barret’s esophagus. Entrust our doctors to prevent or treat esophageal cancer growth.
Symptoms of Barret’s esophagus:
If you have not been diagnosed with this condition but suspect you have it, continue reading. Although it is odd, half of the people diagnosed with Barret’s esophagus report little to no symptoms of acid reflux. Discuss you digestive health with your gastro doctor regarding the possibility of Barret’s esophagus.
See a doctor promptly if you have trouble with heartburn, regurgitation, and acid reflux for more than five years. Ask your doctor about your risk of Barret’s esophagus. Seek immediate help if you have any of the following:
- have chest pain, which may be a symptom of a heart attack
- have difficulty swallowing
- are vomiting red blood or blood that looks like coffee grounds
- are passing black, tarry or bloody stools
- are unintentionally losing weight
Risk Factors:
People may be at risk for Barret’s esophagus if they have a family history of the condition or esophageal cancer. Being a white male puts you at a higher risk of this condition as well. It is more common in adults over fifty years old.
For those that have GERD which requires medications known as proton pump inhibitors, they are at a higher risk. Having GERD that requires regular medication can also put you at risk. Current or former smokers are at risk. Being overweight, like many of conditions, puts patients at risk as body fat around the abdomen further increase the risk.
Contact our office if you suspect you are at risk of Barret’s esophagus. Join us next time as we share diagnosis and treatment options. Be sure to avoid indulging in unhealthy treat this upcoming holiday.
Instead, opt for using cookie cutters to make fruit slices more exciting. Similarly, pretzels and other healthier options come in festive shapes to supply spooky spirit without digestive issues.
Have a Happy Halloween!
Staff Writer