Barrett's Esophagus Overview: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments
Learn about Barrett's esophagus, a condition where the lining of the esophagus changes. Discover the symptoms, causes, and effective treatments to manage this condition and reduce cancer risk.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai MBBS
Last updated on 2nd Sep, 2025
If you frequently experience heartburn or acid reflux, you may have heard of Barrett’s esophagus. This condition occurs when the lining of the esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach) changes due to long-term exposure to stomach acid. While it isn’t life-threatening on its own, it can increase the risk of esophageal cancer if left untreated.
The good news is that with proper care and lifestyle changes, you can manage Barrett’s esophagus effectively. In this article, we’ll explain what it is, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options—all in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What Is Barrett’s Esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the normal tissue lining the esophagus is replaced with tissue similar to the lining of the intestine. This change happens due to chronic acid reflux (GERD—Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, damaging its lining over time.
While not everyone with GERD develops Barrett’s esophagus, those who do should monitor their condition closely, as it can sometimes progress to esophageal cancer.
Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus itself doesn’t cause symptoms, but the underlying acid reflux does. Common signs include:
Frequent heartburn (burning sensation in the chest)
Difficulty swallowing (feeling like food is stuck in the throat)
Chronic cough or hoarseness
Sour taste in the mouth (due to acid regurgitation)
Chest pain (sometimes mistaken for a heart problem)
If you experience these symptoms regularly, especially for several years, it’s important to see a doctor.
Consult a Gastroenterologist for personalized consultation
What Causes Barrett’s Esophagus?
The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but the following factors increase the risk:
1. Chronic GERD – Long-term acid reflux is the biggest risk factor.
2. Age – More common in people over 50.
3. Gender – Men are more likely to develop it than women.
4. Obesity – Excess belly fat increases pressure on the stomach, worsening reflux.
5. Smoking & Alcohol – Both weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (the muscle that prevents acid from flowing back).
6. Family History – Having a relative with Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer increases risk.
How Is Barrett’s Esophagus Diagnosed?
Since Barrett’s esophagus doesn’t cause symptoms on its own, doctors usually diagnose it while investigating long-term GERD. The most common test is an endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed down your throat to examine the esophagus.
During this procedure, a small tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken to check for abnormal cells. If Barrett’s esophagus is confirmed, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring to detect any precancerous changes early.
If you experience persistent acid reflux, consider booking a consultation with a gastroenterologist on Apollo 24|7 for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Barrett’s Esophagus
Treatment focuses on managing acid reflux and preventing complications. Options include:
1. Lifestyle Changes
Diet Modifications: Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods (like citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee).
Eat Smaller Meals: Large meals increase stomach pressure.
Avoid Lying Down After Eating: Wait at least 3 hours before sleeping.
Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Use a wedge pillow to reduce nighttime reflux.
Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol: Both worsen GERD.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing excess weight reduces reflux.
2. Medications
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid production (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole).
H2 Blockers: Help control acid (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine).
Antacids: Provide quick relief for occasional heartburn.
3. Medical Procedures
If abnormal (precancerous) cells are found, doctors may recommend:
Endoscopic Ablation: Removing abnormal tissue using heat, cold, or laser therapy.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Uses heat to destroy abnormal cells.
Endoscopic Resection: Removing affected tissue for further testing.
In rare cases, surgery may be needed to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter.
Can Barrett’s Esophagus Be Prevented?
While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:
Managing GERD effectively with diet and medications.
Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Getting regular checkups if you have chronic reflux.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if you:
Have frequent heartburn (more than twice a week).
Experience difficulty swallowing.
Notice unexplained weight loss.
Have persistent nausea or vomiting.
Early detection and treatment can prevent complications. Book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 today for personalized care.
Final Thoughts
Barrett’s esophagus is a manageable condition, especially with early intervention. By controlling acid reflux, making healthy lifestyle choices, and following your doctor’s advice, you can reduce the risk of complications.
If you’ve been dealing with long-term heartburn, don’t ignore it—get checked and take control of your digestive health!
Stay informed, stay healthy!
Consult an Gastroenterologist
Consult a Gastroenterologist for personalized consultation
Dr. Aakash Garg
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12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
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(125+ Patients)
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11 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, DM Gastroenterology
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30 Years • MBBS, MS, FICS, FIMSA, FMAS
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Dr. Ankit Vijay Agarwal
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
14 Years • MBBS(Osmania), DNB(Internal Medicine ), DM ( Osmania) Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopist
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Dr. Soham Doshi
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MD medicine DNB Gastroenterology fellowship in Liver Transplant
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Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
Consult an Gastroenterologist
Dr. Aakash Garg
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).
Bilaspur
Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur
(125+ Patients)
Dr. Mohd Irtaza
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
11 Years • MBBS, MD Internal Medicine, DM Gastroenterology
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(100+ Patients)
Dr. Sunil Kaul
General Surgeon
30 Years • MBBS, MS, FICS, FIMSA, FMAS
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Ankit Vijay Agarwal
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
14 Years • MBBS(Osmania), DNB(Internal Medicine ), DM ( Osmania) Consultant Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist and Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopist
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
Dr. Soham Doshi
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MD medicine DNB Gastroenterology fellowship in Liver Transplant
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik