Barrett’s esophagus is considered a complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease because frequent exposure of the lining of the esophagus to the contents of the stomach causes chronic inflammation and a change in the type of cell that makes up the tissue in that area, leading to a A condition called intestinal metaplasia emerges.
This condition does not always cause symptoms, however, signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease may appear which are constant heartburn, burning and belching. The diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus is made by a gastroenterologist by performing an upper digestive endoscopy and the indicated treatment is mainly based on the use of drugs to reduce stomach acidity.
- Once Barrett’s esophagus has been identified.
- It is important to follow treatment guidelines.
- As well as make dietary changes to improve symptoms and reduce inflammation at the site.
- As people with Barrett’s condition are at risk.
- Increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.
- Regular follow-up with your doctor is also recommended to reevaluate the injury.
While it does not always cause symptoms, a person with Barrett’s esophagus may experience symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, which are:
In addition, pain in the middle of the chest, near the stomach, is usually common in these cases, since with gastroesophageal reflux, the gastric content returns, irritating the lining of the esophagus. .
Barrett’s esophagus diagnosis is performed by endoscopy, a test in which a tube is inserted through the oral cavity and that allows observation of the lining of the esophagus, and confirmation is performed by testing the biopsy taken during this test. , with a small sample of esophageal tissue, which is then tested by the doctor in the laboratory. Learn more about how endoscopy is performed.
A promise to accelerate and prevent repeated endoscopy for Barrett’s esophagus diagnosis is the capsule test, such as Cytosponge, which involves swallowing a guided capsule that passes through the gastrointestinal tract and is able to collect tissue samples. The method is still being tested and is not routinely performed.
Barrett’s esophagus is a type of esophageal injury caused by repeated episodes of gastroesophageal reflux disease, and the gastroenterologist indicates the treatment of this condition after confirmation of diagnosis and usually involves using medications to decrease heartburn. As:
In addition, it is also very important to adopt healthy eating habits, with a diet that helps digestion and reduces the onset of reflux.
However, if medication and diet therapy is not enough, radiofrequency ablation may be indicated to eliminate esophageal damage or surgery, either to build a new gastroesophageal valve or for more complex operations to remove the inner wall. . of the esophagus.
Barrett’s esophagus is more common in people with a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease, which is exacerbated by risk factors such as poor eating habits, excessive consumption of fried foods or soda, cigarette smoking, and obesity.
Therefore, it is recommended to see a doctor if symptoms of reflux appear, such as heartburn or burning, for example, or if you have a family history of this disease, to investigate if there is this type of complication and make the appropriate treatment. .
Food control is an important step in helping treat Barrett’s esophagus and it is recommended that:
Another important dietary tip is to eat slowly and chew food well, as this helps digestion and can help prevent reflux. Learn more about foods that cause acidity in foods to prevent heartburn.
Barrett’s esophagus is not cancer, but it causes lesions called intestinal metaplasia, which can be considered precancerous, so people with Barrett’s esophagus have an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.
It is also important that people with risk factors associated with the development of Barrett’s esophagus and who have cases of esophageal cancer in the family are frequently screened for early changes in the lining of the esophagus.
Watch a video with great natural treatment tips for gastroesophageal reflux disease: