Doctronic logo spinning
Skipping wait room
AI Doctor ready
Starting secure consult

What is Barrett's Esophagus? The Silent Threat in Your Throat

Published: May 08, 2024

Barrett's esophagus is a condition where the lining of your lower esophagus changes, potentially increasing your risk of cancer. Understanding this condition is crucial for early detection and prevention.
Contents

What Causes Barrett's Esophagus?

Barrett's esophagus is primarily caused by long-term acid reflux, also known as GERD. When stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, it can damage the lining over time. This damage triggers changes in the cells, leading to Barrett's esophagus. Think of it like your esophagus developing a protective shield, but one that comes with its own risks.

Who's at Risk?

While anyone can develop Barrett's esophagus, certain factors increase your risk. These include being over 50, male, overweight, and having a history of chronic heartburn. Smoking also plays a role. Interestingly, Barrett's esophagus is more common in White individuals compared to other racial groups. It's like a perfect storm of factors that can lead to this condition.
Barrett's esophagus is a condition where the lining of the lower esophagus changes due to chronic acid reflux, increasing the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The tricky part about Barrett's esophagus is that it doesn't cause specific symptoms on its own. Most people discover they have it while being checked for acid reflux symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves an endoscopy, where a doctor looks inside your esophagus with a camera. They'll take small tissue samples (biopsies) to confirm the diagnosis. It's like being a detective, searching for clues in your esophagus.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, but it can increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer.

While not curable, it can be managed and monitored effectively.

It affects about 5.6% of adults in the United States.

Barrett's esophagus is named after Dr. Norman Barrett, who first described it in 1950.

Knowledge is Power

Understanding Barrett's esophagus empowers you to take control of your digestive health and reduce your cancer risk.
Concerned about Barrett's esophagus? Talk to Doctronic about your risk factors and whether you should be screened.

Related Articles

References

  1. American Gastroenterological Association, Spechler SJ, Sharma P, et al. American Gastroenterological Association medical position statement on the management of Barrett's esophagus. Gastroenterology 2011; 140:1084.
  2. Spechler SJ. Clinical practice. Barrett's Esophagus. N Engl J Med 2002; 346:836.
  3. Hayeck TJ, Kong CY, Spechler SJ, et al. The prevalence of Barrett's esophagus in the US: estimates from a simulation model confirmed by SEER data. Dis Esophagus 2010; 23:451.

This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.

AI Doctor Visit Required

Appointments available 24/7

😀 😀 😀
sthetoscope

Top licensed doctors

Available in all 50 states

dossier

Full service care

Prescriptions, referrals & treatment

check

No insurance needed

All notes available in Doctronic

15-min consultation. No hidden costs.

AI Doctor Visit Required
Close icon

Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First

Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care

Contact us

You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai

We aim to reply within 5-7 days

How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?
Not likely at all Extremely likely