Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

What causes Barrett's esophagus?

Barrett's esophagus is caused by damage to the cells lining the esophagus, which causes them to change from one type (squamous cells) to another (columnar cells). This damage is mostly caused by reflux of stomach acid.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is Barrett's esophagus?

Barrett's esophagus is when the cells lining the esophagus - the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach - change to resemble the lining of the stomach, due to damage from acid reflux. This condition can potentially increase the risk of developing …

What are the signs and symptoms of Barrett's esophagus?

There are no signs and symptoms of Barrett's esophagus, but there are symptoms caused by the gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GORD) that results in it. These symptoms include difficulty swallowing, heartburn and weight loss.

How is Barrett's esophagus diagnosed?

Barrett's esophagus is diagnosed by endoscopy, in which you are sedated and a long narrow telescopic camera is inserted down your throat so the digestive system can be seen and a biopsy taken for examination for cellular abnormalities by a pathologist.

How is Barrett's esophagus treated?

How Barrett's esophagus is treated depends on how abnormal the cell changes are (low-grade or high-grade dysplasia). Low-grade dysplasia is often treated with drugs to suppress the amount of stomach acid you produce and follow up endoscopy, whereas …

Can Barrett's esophagus be prevented?

Although Barrett's esophagus may not be prevented, you can reduce your risk by not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and using anti-reflux medications when you experience reflux.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Heartburn

Heartburn, also known as GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) or acid reflux, occurs when stomach acid or contents travel from the stomach back up the oesophagus, usually into the mouth. There are numerous treatments to help alleviate symptoms.…
Diseases & conditions

Gastritis

Gastritis describes a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the stomach lining. It occasionally causes symptoms like reduced hunger, nausea and indigestion, but in most cases doesn't produce symptoms at all. Gastritis usually isn’t dangerous and generally improves with treatment.…
Diseases & conditions

Hernia

A hernia occurs when an internal organ pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall, often as a result of increased internal pressure from straining or heavy lifting. This creates a bulge on the abdomen that can be felt through the skin.…
Diseases & conditions

Chest pain

Chest pain has many causes, ranging from muscle strain to more serious cardiovascular problems such as heart attack. If you do experience chest pain, it is important to seek prompt medical attention.…
Diseases & conditions

Esophageal cancer

Oesophageal cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the tissues of the oesophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Abnormal cells can form a tumour, leading to problems with swallowing food, and can spread through the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Traveler's diarrhea

Traveller's diarrhoea is an infection of the gastrointestinal tract that mainly affects travellers, typically due to poor sanitation. It usually causes urgent and frequent diarrhoea. This can be unpleasant and potentially lead to dehydration. It is important to keep hydrated and medications may be needed to help with symptoms.…

About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 23 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 5.0 out of 5
Votes: 1493 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Heartburn

×

Content goes in here.