May 16 is Barrett’s Esophagus Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness about a potentially serious complication of chronic acid reflux. While heartburn may seem minor, persistent symptoms can be a warning sign of Barrett’s esophagus, a condition that increases the risk of esophageal cancer if left untreated.
What Happens in Barrett’s Esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus occurs when the lining of the distal esophagus (food pipe) changes from normal squamous (flat) cells to columnar (raised) cells like those lining the stomach. The conversion of one cell type into another is called metaplasia.
Metaplasia occurs in response to injury and inflammation. In the case of Barrett’s esophagus, uncontrolled long-term GERD causes injury and inflammation.
Obesity and smoking in the setting of GERD further increase the risk of Barrett’s esophagus development.
Is Metaplasia Good or Bad?
The metaplastic tissue, Barrett’s esophagus, is more resistant to damage from the injurious agent, GERD. In other words, metaplasia is a protective response to tissue injury.
However, Barrett’s esophagus may progress to cancer in some cases. The 5-year survival rate for esophageal cancer is low. Hence, early detection and prevention are crucial.
When to Get Checked
If you experience any of the following acid reflux symptoms, get evaluated by a competent acid reflux specialist:
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Heartburn
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Food regurgitation
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Excessive burping and bloating
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Cough
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Constant throat clearing
Don’t mask your symptoms with Tums and Pepcid year after year, until it is too late. It is much easier to treat acid reflux and Barrett’s esophagus than to treat esophageal cancer.
How Is Barrett’s Esophagus Diagnosed?
Barrett’s esophagus is suspected on upper endoscopy. Diagnosis is confirmed by examining a sample of esophagus lining under the microscope.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed several measures can be taken to minimize the risk of Barrett’s esophagus progressing to esophageal cancer.
What Are the Treatment Options?
PPIs, proton pump inhibitors, have no effect on extent of Barrett’s esophagus. Several studies, on the other hand, have reported regression or elimination of Barrett’s esophagus after antireflux surgery.
At Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center, we have documented cases of complete Barrett’s mucosa regression following hiatal hernia repair and Nissen fundoplication.
Effective Treatment Starts Here at Houston Heartburn and Reflux Center
A properly performed hiatal hernia repair and Nissen fundoplication is the most reliable cure for GERD. If you are struggling with acid reflux, don’t wait until it is too late.
Call 832-945-8717 and get evaluated by a competent acid reflux specialist.