Welcome! Our specialists offer advanced treatment for Barrett's esophagus, ensuring precise diagnosis and personalized care.

Signs and Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus

Barrett's esophagus happens when the lining of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach, changes. Normally, the lining is similar to the skin inside your mouth. With Barrett's esophagus, it starts to resemble the lining of your intestine.

This condition often develops in people with long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, irritating its lining. Over time, this acid exposure can cause the cells in the esophagus to change.

Signs and symptoms of Barrett's esophagus include:

  • Frequent heartburn: A burning sensation in your chest, often after eating.
  • Difficulty swallowing: Feeling like food is stuck in your esophagus.
  • Chest pain: This can be similar to heartburn but may feel more intense.
  • Chronic cough: Persistent coughing that doesn’t seem to go away.
  • Hoarseness: A raspy or strained voice, especially in the morning.
  • Regurgitation: Food or sour liquid coming back up into your throat or mouth.

It's important to note that Barrett's esophagus itself doesn’t always cause symptoms. Often, the symptoms you experience are due to GERD.

When to Seek Care

Patients should make an appointment with their medical provider if they experience symptoms that get worse or don’t go away.

If you have a family history of Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer, discuss screening with your doctor.

Regular check-ups are important because Barrett's esophagus can increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Early diagnosis and monitoring are vital.

If you have persistent GERD symptoms, talk to your provider about the possibility of Barrett's esophagus and appropriate monitoring.

Barrett’s Esophagus Diagnosis at Cape Fear Valley Health

If you need to be assessed for Barrett's esophagus, here’s what you can expect during the diagnostic process at CFVH.

Your doctor will start by thoroughly reviewing your medical history and symptoms. Be prepared to discuss your experience with heartburn, acid reflux, and any other related symptoms. Your doctor may also perform a physical exam to check for signs of acid reflux or complications related to GERD.

An upper endoscopy is the primary method for diagnosing Barrett's esophagus. During this procedure:

  • You will be given a sedative to help you relax.
  • A thin, flexible tube with a light and camera (endoscope) is passed down your throat into your esophagus.
  • The doctor will examine the lining of your esophagus and may take small tissue samples (biopsies) for further analysis.

A pathologist will examine the tissue samples taken during the endoscopy under a microscope. This helps confirm the presence of Barrett's esophagus and check for any precancerous or cancerous cells.

Additional imaging tests, such as a barium swallow X-ray, may be recommended in some cases. This helps to visualize the esophagus and any structural changes better.

Your doctor will discuss the findings with you based on the results. If Barrett's esophagus is confirmed, they will explain the condition and discuss a treatment and monitoring plan.

Barrett’s Esophagus Treatment at Cape Fear Valley Health

If you are diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, there are a variety of treatment options. What’s right for you depends on the extent of the condition and whether any precancerous or cancerous cells are found. Here are the common treatment approaches:

Medication

  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medications reduce stomach acid, helping to manage GERD symptoms and prevent further damage to the esophagus.
  • H2 Blockers: Another type of medication that reduces acid production.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Dietary Modifications: Avoiding foods and drinks that trigger acid reflux, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Weight Management: Losing weight if you are overweight can reduce pressure on your stomach and decrease acid reflux.
  • Elevating the Head of Your Bed: This can help prevent nighttime reflux.

Regular Monitoring

  • Endoscopic Surveillance: Regular endoscopies to monitor changes in the esophageal lining and detect precancerous changes early.

Endoscopic Treatments

  • Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): An endoscope removes abnormal tissue.
  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to destroy abnormal cells in the esophagus lining.
  • Cryotherapy: Uses cold gas to freeze and destroy abnormal cells.
  • Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Uses a light-sensitive drug and a laser to destroy abnormal cells.

Surgical Options

  • Esophagectomy: In severe cases where there are significant precancerous changes or early-stage cancer, part or all of the esophagus may be surgically removed.

Why Choose Cape Fear Valley Health for Barrett’s Esophagus Care?

  • Expert Team of Specialists

    Our hospital is home to a team of highly experienced gastroenterologists and specialized nurses who diagnose and treat Barrett's esophagus. Their expertise ensures that you receive the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.

  • State-of-the-Art Technology

    We use the latest technology and advanced equipment to diagnose and treat Barrett's esophagus. Our state-of-the-art endoscopy suite allows for precise and effective endoscopic procedures, ensuring high-quality care and better outcomes.

  • Comprehensive Treatment Options

    We offer a full range of treatment options for Barrett's esophagus. This includes everything from medication and lifestyle changes to advanced endoscopic treatments and, if necessary, surgical interventions. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every patient receives a personalized treatment plan that best suits their condition.