Barrett's Esophagus in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is often associated with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This condition occurs if the regular tissue lining of the esophagus shifts to become more like intestinal cells. Even though the risk of cancer of the esophagus increases with people who have Barrett’s esophagus, the chance of it turning into cancer from this GI condition is smaller than 1%. If you or a family member have GERD, then we recommend that you schedule regular visits with a Thibodaux, LA GI specialist to supervise your condition and watch for signs of Barrett's esophagus. You can find a local GI provider at your closest Digestive Health Center location.
Who is at risk for developing Barrett’s esophagus?
The main cause of Barrett’s esophagus includes years of unmanaged GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). GERD won't necessarily develop into Barrett’s esophagus, but if the acid reflux is left unmanaged, it is possible that you could develop Barrett’s esophagus. Signs of increased risk are:
- Those with large amounts of abdominal fat
- Current smokers or having a history of smoking
- Being a male
- Genetics
- Those who are over age 50
- Being caucasian
Our GI specialists are proud to provide personalized treatment options for Barrett's esophagus in Thibodaux, LA.
What are the symptoms of Barrett's esophagus?
Most people notice that there are no specific symptoms associated with the tissue changes caused by Barrett’s esophagus. Most of the time, individuals with this condition may not experience any warning signs or symptoms.
If you have had heartburn or other types of symptoms for extended periods of time, we recommend requesting a consultation with your digestive health provider. The only way to confirm this condition is by way of a front-end GI endoscopy. Your Digestive Health Center GI provider will also, likely, take a biopsy of the cells in your esophagus to confirm the diagnosis.
Some of the symptoms associated with Barrett’s esophagus include:
- Persistent acid reflux (heartburn)
- Trouble swallowing
- Chest pain (not as common)
What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?
Care for Barrett’s esophagus is unique to other gastrointestinal diseases. The type of treatment recommended depends on the extent of precancerous tissue (dysplasia) present in your esophageal lining.
The different levels of dysplasia and possible treatment options include:
- Non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus: Even if no atypical cells are present, it is still important to arrange routine endoscopy tests to check for changes in the tissue in the esophagus. Your gastroenterologist will also normally recommend care much like those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (like lifestyle recommendations or medication).
- Mild-grade dysplasia: With a minimal level of precancerous tissue formation, you may expect to receive endoscopic resection or radiofrequency ablation for removal.
- High-grade dysplasia: If you have a higher amount of abnormal esophageal lining, freezing treatments, light-based treatments, or esophagectomy may be needed.
Specialized care for Barrett's esophagus
If acid reflux is left untreated, Barrett's esophagus can develop. This severe but repairable condition of GERD can be assessed and managed by an experienced GI provider. To connect with a GI specialist who will partner alongside you to manage your GI problem, including Barrett's esophagus, we invite you to get in touch with the professionals at a Digestive Health Center location near you. As a physician-led network of gastroenterologists, Digestive Health Center has experience treating conditions like Barrett's esophagus. Contact one of our Thibodaux, LA locations to find your specialist in GI wellness today.
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