Barrett's Esophagus in Illinois
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Find a ProviderWhat is Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is an issue related to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This issue is present when the regular tissue lining of your esophagus shifts to match intestinal cells. The chance of cancer of the esophagus heightens with patients who are diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus. But the risk of turning into cancer as a result of this GI condition is lower than 1 percent. In the event that you or your loved one suffers with GERD, then we encourage you set up periodic visits with a Chicago, IL, Peoria, IL, or Normal, IL, GI doctor to supervise your condition and watch for indications of Barrett's esophagus. We can help you track down a local gastroenterologist at GI Alliance of Illinois.
Who develops Barrett’s esophagus?
The dominant cause of Barrett’s esophagus involves years of untreated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD doesn't always develop into Barrett’s esophagus. If the condition is not managed, at some point it is conceivable that someone will develop Barrett’s. Factors of increased danger involve:
- Those who are white
- Those who are over age 50
- Being a men
- Having excess belly fat
- Genetics
- Smoking or having been a smoker
Our GI physicians provide personalized care for Barrett's esophagus in Illinois. Please contact our team to schedule a consultation if you think you could be at risk.
Symptoms of Barrett's esophagus
Most people notice no specific symptoms connected with the cellular modifications in Barrett’s esophagus. Many times, individuals who have Barrett’s esophagus may not notice any indications or signs.
In the event that you have had acid reflux or other forms of symptoms for prolonged periods of time in Illinois, our GI Alliance of Illinois physicians advise talking with and being tested with your digestive health specialist. The only sure way to diagnose if you have Barrett’s esophagus is to have a front-end endoscopy and take an exam of the tissue lining in your esophagus.
Some of the signs accompanying Barrett’s esophagus:
- Persistent heartburn (acid reflux)
- Having a hard time swallowing food or drinks
- A burning sensation in the chest (less common)
What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?
Intervention for Barrett’s esophagus at GI Alliance of Illinois is different from other GI afflictions. The specific care recommended corresponds with the degree of atypical cell presence, called dysplasia, in the esophageal lining.
The varying phases of dysplasia (abnormal cell development) and standard therapies in Illinois are:
- Non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus: While no precancerous tissue is found, it is still important to arrange routine endoscopy tests. This allows for your GI doctor to detect alterations to the esophageal tissues. We will also likely recommend therapies similar to those provided for gastroesophageal reflux disease. This involves behavioral modifications or prescription medication.
- Mild-grade dysplasia: With a small level of abnormal cell growth, you could need to receive endoscopic resection or radiofrequency ablation for treatment.
- High-grade dysplasia: For those who have a larger amount of precancerous esophageal lining, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy, or esophagectomy might be needed.
Expert care for Barrett's esophagus
If you experience acid reflux, then disregarding your condition can result in Barrett's esophagus. This alarming but fixable problem associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease can get diagnosed and addressed by an experienced gastroenterologist. If you want to speak with a GI doctor who can partner with you to address your Barrett's esophagus, we invite you to reach out to the experts at GI Alliance of Illinois. As a physician-led group of gastroenterologists, GI Alliance of Illinois has skilled experts in conditions such as Barrett's esophagus. Get in touch with our many Illinois' offices to connect with your specialist in digestive wellness now.
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