Do you have chronic heartburn or difficulty swallowing? In many cases, these can indicate symptoms of GERD. But sometimes, it is a sign of a more serious condition called Barrett’s esophagus, which can place you at greater risk of throat cancer. Can Barrett’s esophagus be reversed? We’ll explore that and more of your FAQs in this article.
While Barrett’s esophagus can cause pain and discomfort, your gastroenterologist in Raleigh is the perfect healthcare professional to help you.
At RMG Gastroenterology, our board-certified doctors have decades of experience treating those who live in the Triangle and beyond. Need more information? Just contact us to discover how we can assist you.
What Is Barrett’s Esophagus?
Before we look at can Barrett’s esophagus be reversed, let’s examine this condition that raises many questions.
In Barrett’s esophagus, the lining of the esophagus is transformed, typically due to extended periods of acid reflux or GERD. The “normal” lining is replaced with a lining that is similar to the intestines. As a result, this increases your risk of developing esophageal cancer.
While research is ongoing on the condition, some evidence does suggest a genetic component. However, GERD and lifestyle factors are more closely associated with the development of Barrett’s esophagus.
Can Barrett’s Esophagus Be Reversed?
Typically, medical help concentrates on keeping Barrett’s esophagus from progressing instead of reversing the condition. It’s generally a disease that must be managed, and it’s often not possible to completely reverse the condition.
However, a new treatment called cryoablation shows a lot of promise. During this procedure, the damaged cells are frozen to stimulate the regeneration of new, normal tissue. You may also be a candidate for other treatments like radiofrequency ablation and photodynamic therapy. If you’ve been diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus and wonder if Barrett’s esophagus be reversed, just speak with us about your options. We promise to take the time to answer all your questions.
Can You Fix Barrett’s Esophagus?
You’ll find that many of the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus are similar to those for helping alleviate GERD. These include:
- Dietary changes
- Surgery
- Medication
- Endoscopic therapy
- Stopping smoking (if you smoke)
What Are the Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus?
These are also similar to the symptoms of GERD. They include:
- Chest pain
- Chronic heartburn
- Heartburn that is not alleviated with over-the-counter medicines
- Difficulty swallowing
In some cases, Barrett’s esophagus may only show mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Because these symptoms are similar to those of GERD, it’s very important to be evaluated by one of our board-certified gastroenterologists in Raleigh to determine if you have GERD or Barrett’s esophagus.
How Serious Is Barrett’s Esophagus?
The condition itself is not life-threatening. The main concern is that it can dramatically increase your risk of developing esophageal cancer.
If You’re Showing Signs of Barrett’s Esophagus, Schedule an Appointment With Our Leading Gastroenterologists
Because our physicians specialize in all elements of the digestive system, we’re perfect partners in your care to help diagnose and manage Barrett’s esophagus. At RMG Gastroenterology, we’ll tailor our plans to fit your individual needs.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus or if you have chronic GERD symptoms, we urge you to contact one of our physicians. Early intervention is vital to ensure your long-term health.
Scheduling an appointment is easy. We would consider it a privilege to be your medical home.
