Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the tissue in the esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth and stomach, is replaced by tissue similar to that of the intestinal lining. This condition often develops in people with long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as a result of the chronic location of acid into the lower esophagus from the stomach.
Changes in esophageal tissue produce no symptoms on their own. Rather, the ongoing symptoms are those associated with GERD colon frequent heartburn difficulty swallowing food, occasionally chest pain.
SYMPTOM OF BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS
You may be at risk for Barrett’s esophagus if you:
- Have heartburn and acid reflux that is not helped by your medications
- Are an older adult
- Are white
- Are male
- Are overweight, with large deposits of abdominal fat
- Are a current or past smoker
DISCUSSING YOU RISK OF BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS WITH YOUR DOCTOR
Since the condition produces no symptoms, it is important to discuss the risks of Barrett’s esophagus with your physician. Untreated, the condition can lead to esophageal cancer in some patients.
To determine if you have Barrett’s Esophagus, Dr, Asgeri at Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology will perform an endoscopy to determine tissue change. After passing a lighted tube with a camera at the end (endoscope) down your throat, he will take a tissue sample from your esophagus to check for signs of changing esophageal tissue. If the tissue appears red and velvety instead of pale and smooth, you have the condition,
The biopsy will help your doctor determine the next step, based on the degree of abnormal cell growth you show. Treatments range from periodic endoscopies and treatment for ERD to cell removal.
SCHEDULE TREATMENT FOR BARRETT’S ESOPHAGUS AT OASIS ADVANCED GASTROENTEROLGY
Screening with an endoscopy can be invaluable in diagnosing Barrett’s Esophagus. Contact Oasis Advanced Gastroenterology in Palm Springs to schedule an Endoscopy with Dr. Asgeri.
Request an appointment online or call 760-699-7607.