Can GERD Cause Barrett’s Esophagus?

Many people live out their daily lives, struggling with heartburn, thinking that it’s a normal part of their lives. What they don’t know, however, is that persistent heartburn (also known as GERD) is actually a serious condition. Left untreated, GERD can actually wreak havoc on your esophagus and cause complications like Barrett’s Esophagus - chronic inflammation of the esophagus. Let’s take a look at some common questions regarding this condition: how often does GERD turn into Barrett’s esophagus, how long does GERD last before Barrett's esophagus develops, and can Barrett’s esophagus just go away?

What Are the Symptoms and Risk Factors of Barrett’s Esophagus?

There are no true symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus; however, patients with this condition will also have GERD and those symptoms are as follows: heartburn, indigestion difficulty swallowing, and regurgitation. Risk factors include:

• Persistent heartburn or GERD

• Being around or over the age of 55

• Being caucasian

• Having an inflamed esophagus

How Often Does GERD Turn Into Barrett’s Esophagus?

Roughly five to ten percent of patients with severe, chronic GERD or inflammation of the esophagus from other means will develop this condition. However, the longer you leave GERD untreated, the higher your risk becomes. This is because prolonged inflammation of the esophagus leads to repetitive and accelerated tissue replacement in the lining of the esophagus. From a statistical standpoint, your odds of developing esophageal cancer also increase the longer you forgo treatment for your acid reflux woes.

How Long Does GERD Last Before Barrett’s Esophagus Develops?

Every patient is different, but the majority of Barrett’s esophagus sufferers are 55 (or close to that age). It’s difficult to say exactly how long it will take for GERD to turn into Barrett’s esophagus, but you don’t want to be the one to find out. Barrett’s esophagus itself increases your risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Can Barrett’s Esophagus Just Go Away?

There is some disagreement within the medical community as to whether or not Barrett’s esophagus can resolve and reverse. Some patients have gotten negative results after having been diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus, and a variety of treatments have yielded these results. However, it isn’t known whether these negative results are due to successful treatments or simply a poor sample collection. 

Regardless, treatment of Barrett’s esophagus involves constant medication with PPIs or physically stopping the reflux itself - both of which will reduce aggravation on the esophageal lining and reduce your risk for developing cancer.

Barrett’s Esophagus Diagnosis and Treatment in Tampa Bay

Diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus involves a comprehensive exam, discussing your symptoms, and an upper endoscopy or chromoendoscopy. Treatment options include periodic surveillance endoscopy (if using medications), endoscopic ablation (destroying the rogue cells), endoscopic mucosal resection (removing the cells), or reflux surgery to correct the cause behind your reflux (combined with periodic surveillance). 

If you are suffering from constant acid reflux, you may need to be diagnosed with GERD and have a gastroenterologist take a look at your esophageal lining. Don’t hesitate; reach out to the team at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center today!