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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 esophageal cancer in the future.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

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.

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.

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About this article

Author: Karen McCloskey BHSc
First answered: 23 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.0 out of 5
Votes: 1102 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Heartburn

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