Barrett’s Esophagus

Barrett’s esophagus is a precancerous condition caused by persistent damage to the esophagus from acid reflux. The team at Hussein Abidali, DO Digestive Health Inc. in Rancho Cucamonga, California, specializes in diagnosing and treating Barrett’s esophagus. Taking a patient-centered approach to care, Hussein Abidali, DO, and the team create treatment plans that benefit your whole health. To learn more about Barrett’s esophagus, call or schedule an evaluation online today.

What is Barrett’s esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which there’s a change in the types of cells that line the esophagus. The esophagus is lined with squamous cells, which are flat and square. 

With Barrett’s esophagus, the cells lining the esophagus are like the cells in the small intestine, called specialized intestinal metaplasia. These mutated cells may progress to precancerous cells. 

Barrett’s esophagus affects more than 3 million people in the United States. 

What causes Barrett’s esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is a complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Repeated exposure to the stomach’s acidic contents damages the esophagus, leading to the cell changes. It’s most often seen in people who have persistent heartburn from their GERD.

If you have GERD or experience heartburn more than two times a week, you need to schedule a consultation with the gastroenterology team at Hussein Abidali, DO Digestive Health Inc. 

You can still develop Barrett’s esophagus even if your GERD causes no symptoms.

What tests do I need to find out if I have Barrett’s esophagus?

The team at Hussein Abidali, DO Digestive Health Inc. takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to care, focusing on you, not your symptoms. They determine what tests you need following an evaluation.

They ask detailed questions about your diet, usual routine, personal medical history, and family history. They also review your symptoms and perform a physical exam. 

To diagnose Barrett’s esophagus, the team performs an upper endoscopy and takes a tissue sample (biopsy) from your esophagus. 

What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?

The team at Hussein Abidali, DO Digestive Health Inc. customizes your Barrett’s esophagus treatment plan based on the results of your biopsy. Treatment generally centers around controlling your GERD to prevent further damage.

They also recommend routine monitoring and modifications to your diet, such as limiting the intake of fatty foods, spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.

If your biopsy shows you have precancerous or cancerous cells, the team performs endoscopic ablation or surgery to kill or remove mutated cells.

To schedule your Barrett’s esophagus evaluation at Hussein Abidali, DO Digestive Health Inc., call or book an appointment online today.