Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition characterized by the replacement of normal cell lining of the lower part of the esophagus, referred to as squamous cells, by a different type of cell, referred to as intestinal cells. This process happens as a result of repetitive damage caused to the lining of the esophagus. Chronic Gastroesophageal reflux disease is the commonest cause of Barrett’s esophagus.
What are the risk factors of Barrett’s esophagus ?
A number of factors increase the risk of developing Barrett’s esophagus. Some of these are mentioned below :
Age : The risk is increased in middle aged and the elderly, the average age being 55 years at diagnosis.Gender : It is more common in males than in females.
Ethnic background : It is more common in white and Hispanic populations and is not so common in Asian and black populations.
Lifestyle factors : It is more common in smokers than in non smokers
Ethnic background : It is more common in white and Hispanic populations and is not so common in Asian and black populations.
Lifestyle factors : It is more common in smokers than in non smokers
Symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus
There are no symptoms as such of Barrett’s esophagus. However, patients suffering from Barrett’s esophagus seek help due to symptoms of GERD such as heartburn, reflux of content of the stomach and difficulty in swallowing (though less common).
How is Barrett’s esophagus diagnosed ?
The diagnosis of Barrett’s esophagus is made by upper endoscopy.
Treating Barrett’s esophagus
The main aim of treatment in patients of Barrett’s esophagus is to control the symptoms of acid reflux.
Complications of Barrett’s esophagus
One major complication of Barrett’s esophagus is that gradually over time, the intestinal cells may develop early precancerous changes which may then progress to advanced precancerous changes, and finally to esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Monitoring Barrett’s esophagus
It is recommended to monitor most of the patients suffering from Barrett’s esophagus for precancerous changes periodically with endoscopy and tissue biopsy.
FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS
Functional disorders are characterized by abnormal functioning bowel but with no clear pathology. The two major types of functional disorders are constipation and irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.