The Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Dr. Sharma and Digestive Health Associates for contributing as our guest blogger this month.
Barrett’s Esophagus: What is Barrett’s Esophagus?
- Having Barrett’s esophagus means the cells lining the esophagus (the tube that links the mouth and the stomach) have changed into a type of intestinal cells that are not normal and increase the risk of long-term problems.
- Barrett’s esophagus does not cause symptoms that you can feel.
- It is found through an upper GI endoscopy and biopsy (taking a small piece of tissue to look at under a microscope).
- The biggest worry with Barrett’s esophagus is that those who have it are at a slightly greater risk for a rare type of cancer forming in the esophagus.
- While the true cause is unknown, having heartburn that doesn’t go away could make you more likely to get Barrett’s esophagus.
