Barrett’s Esophagus: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the internal lining of the esophagus gets replaced by tissue that looks like the intestine lining due to the stomach acid repeatedly flowing back into the esophagus. This damages the esophageal tissue, thus, forcing it to change its structure to protect itself.

Understanding this condition is important because it heightens the risk of esophageal cancer by 30 to 40 times compared to people without Barrett’s esophagus. Indian studies have reported 2.6% to 23% patients with GERD symptoms are actually suffering from Barrett’s esophagus.

This article aims to explain Barrett’s esophagus symptoms, Barrett’s esophagus causes, and the main risk factors, along with how doctors diagnose this condition.

What is Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition due to which the normal flat, pink cells that line the lower esophagus (food pipe) get replaced by thick, red cells like those found in the intestine lining. This cellular change happens when stomach acid repeatedly damages the esophageal tissue over time, causing it to transform into a different type of tissue to protect itself.

Barrett’s esophagus appears as a salmon or red-coloured lining which looks noticeably different from the normal white or pink esophageal lining. The condition represents a premalignant state, meaning it increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer.

What are the Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus typically does not cause any specific symptoms on its own. When symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus disease do occur, they are usually related to acid reflux and include the following:

1. Heartburn: A burning sensation in the chest after eating which gets worse when lying down.
2. Regurgitation: Stomach contents rise back into the mouth, creating a sour or bitter taste.
3. Difficulty Swallowing: Feeling of food being stuck in the throat or chest when eating solid foods.
4. Chest Pain: Discomfort in the chest area similar to heart-related conditions.
5. Chronic Cough: Persistent dry cough as the body tries to clear acid from the esophagus.
6. Sore Throat: Ongoing throat irritation leading to persistent soreness or hoarseness.

Read more to know about cancer type

What Causes Barrett’s Esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus causes include the following:

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid continuously flows backwards into the esophagus, damaging the normal esophageal lining and causing cells to be replaced with acid-resistant tissue resembling intestinal lining.
2. Lower Esophageal Sphincter Dysfunction: This muscular valve fails to close properly, allowing stomach acid to escape upward and damage the esophagus.
3. Hiatal Hernia: Creates an acidic reservoir between the diaphragm and esophagus, promoting prolonged acid exposure.
4. Bile Reflux: Bile salts from the small intestine flow backward into the stomach and esophagus along with stomach acid.
5. Chronic Acid Exposure Duration: Patients with Barrett’s esophagus typically experience reflux symptoms for longer periods and develop symptoms at an earlier age compared to those with GERD alone.

How is Barrett’s Esophagus Diagnosed?

Barrett’s esophagus diagnosis requires detailed medical examinations to detect characteristic tissue changes. Common diagnostic methods include:

1. Upper Endoscopy Examination: A flexible tube with a camera is used to view the esophageal lining, where Barrett’s esophagus appears as salmon-coloured or red tissue different from the normal lining.
2. Tissue Biopsy: Samples are taken during endoscopy to detect intestine-like cells lining the esophagus.
3. Seattle Protocol: Systematic biopsies are performed every 1 to 2 centimetres in four quadrants along the affected segment.
4. Prague Classification: The length and extent of the affected esophageal parts are measured to monitor the condition.

Early diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus is essential as the condition indicates the risk of developing esophageal cancer and does not show obvious symptoms for most cases. Regular monitoring and appropriate diagnostic procedures can help detect cellular changes at an early stage.

Individuals experiencing persistent acid reflux or other associated symptoms should seek a healthcare provider’s advice and get tested at Dr Lal PathLabs for early detection of Barrett’s esophagus. To book a test, download the Dr Lal PathLabs app for at-home sample collection.

FAQs

1. 1. Does Barrett’s esophagus always progress to cancer?
      Most individuals with Barrett’s esophagus do not develop cancer, but regular monitoring is advised to identify any cellular changes early.

1. 1. Are dietary changes alone effective in managing symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus disease?
      Dietary changes can help with reducing acid reflux symptoms but do not reverse Barrett’s esophagus. Medical follow-up remains essential as Barrett’s esophagus can still turn malignant.

1. Is Barrett’s esophagus more common with certain medications or lifestyle habits?
   The condition is more likely with long-term use of acid-suppressing medications and habits like smoking or excessive alcohol intake.