Barrett's esophagus is a condition that occurs when the esophageal tissues are replaced by tissues similar to the intestinal lining due to the long-term occurrence of acid reflux caused by a gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While not all people afflicted with GERD will develop Barrett's esophagus, they are at an increased risk of developing this condition.

Causes of Barrett's esophagus

According to medicinenet.com, Barrett's esophagus is mainly caused by a chronic and severe acid reflux condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease that develops when acid reflux flows back into the esophagus. When GERD occurs for long periods of time, the normal squamous cells in the esophagus transforms into columnar cells which are normally found in the intestine.

Diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus

Barret's esophagus can be determined through a procedure known as endoscopy. This type of procedure uses a tube that contains a camera which is inserted in the throat to check for changes in the esophageal tissues. A biopsy will be then be done to confirm the changes in the tissues.

According to mayoclinic.org, people who experience symptoms of GERD and who are over the age of 50, have a lot of abdominal fat, a smoker, and have a history of esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus should take tests to screen for Barrett's esophagus.

Barrett's esophagus endoscope diagnosis

To diagnose Barrett's esophagus using endoscopy, two factors should be evident. First, doctors should see abnormal pink coloration in the lining of the esophagus which is a sign of conversion of the normally white esophageal lining; And second, doctors should observe the intestinal type of cells present in the esophagus as well as goblet cells, based on the biopsy.

It is also important to note, that the absence of intestinal goblet cells is not a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus as it is the determining factor in the occurrence of this condition.

Treatment for Barrett's esophagus

Depending on the degree of dysplasia in the esophagus, treatment method for Barrett's esophagus will also vary. According to mayoclinic.org, for cells that have no dysplasia, GERD medications may be prescribed to ease symptoms of acid reflux, however, this does not reduce the risk of Barrett's esophagus and does not prevent esophageal cancer.

For low-grade dysplasia, treatment methods such as endoscopic resection as well as radiofrequency ablation may be done to remove the abnormal cells. Meanwhile, high-grade dysplasia would need more serious treatments such as cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and esophagus removal to treat Barrett's esophagus and prevent esophageal cancer.

Esophageal cancer symptoms

If you are afflicted with Barrett's esophagus, it is important to look out for signs of esophageal cancers, as Barrett's esophagus is known to be a precursor to cancer. Among the common symptoms of esophageal cancer include difficulty in swallowing, sudden weight loss, chest pains, heartburn, and coughing.

Usually, esophageal cancer has no early symptoms, so it is essential to immediately consult your doctor if persistent signs and symptoms of esophageal cancer occur.

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