If you’ve experienced acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), you know how miserable the symptoms can be. But did you know that some of the symptoms of GERD are the same as Barrett’s esophagus, another gastrointestinal condition? Keep reading to learn more about Barrett’s esophagus, its symptoms, and its cause.
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition that occurs when the flat, pink lining of the esophagus becomes damaged by acid reflux. This causes the lining of the esophagus to thicken and redden.
Between the esophagus and the stomach is the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). During normal functioning, the LES opens during eating to allow food to move from the esophagus into the stomach. Then it closes to prevent the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Over time, the LES may disfunction, leading to esophagus damage. This is called GERD. People with GERD often experience symptoms like heartburn or regurgitation. In some, GERD may cause a change in the lining of the esophagus, which causes Barrett’s esophagus.
People with Barrett’s esophagus have an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer. This risk is small, but it’s still important to have regular checkups that include testing for precancerous cells. If precancerous cells are found, a gastroenterologist can treat them to prevent esophageal cancer.
Barrett’s esophagus has no symptoms. This condition mostly occurs in those who have experienced GERD for a long amount of time. Those with Barrett’s esophagus may experience these GERD symptoms:
That burning sensation in your chest after eating is heartburn. If you have heartburn two or more times a week, it’s considered GERD.
It’s common for people who have Barrett’s esophagus to experience regurgitation of stomach contents.
Dysphagia is a side effect of many gastrointestinal disorders. In those with Barrett’s esophagus, dysphagia occurs when acid reflux creates scar tissue. This narrows the esophagus, making it difficult to swallow.
Some with Barrett’s esophagus experience chest pain. This symptom is less common than heartburn or dysphagia.
About half of those diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus experience few if any symptoms of GERD. If you are concerned about Barrett’s esophagus, you should discuss it with your doctor.
Chest pain can also be a symptom of a serious heart condition. If you think you’re having a heart attack, seek medical attention immediately.
The cause of Barrett’s esophagus is unknown. Many people who have Barrett’s esophagus also have chronic GERD. Some have no GERD symptoms, which is a condition called silent reflux.
Whether or not you experience GERD symptoms, the stomach acid washes back into the esophagus. This damages the tissue of the esophagus and triggers changes to its lining, which causes Barrett’s esophagus.
Have you experienced GERD symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and acid reflux for more than five years? It’s time to ask your doctor about your risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. If you are ready for this conversation or to get help with other gastrointestinal conditions, make an appointment today.
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