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Barrett's Esophagus
Facing persistent heartburn? Dr. Scott at Houston's GastroDoxs offers care for Barrett's Esophagus, a precancerous change in your esophageal lining due to chronic acid reflux. Discover diagnosis options, advanced treatments and support to safeguard your health and peace of mind.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Barrett's Esophagus?
Barrett's Esophagus is a change in the cells lining the lower part of the esophagus, where chronic acid reflux or GERD causes them to resemble intestinal cells. This alteration carries an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer if not properly monitored or treated.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Long-term acid reflux (GERD)
History of GERD symptoms
Hiatal hernia
Age over 50 years
Male gender
White ethnicity
Overweight or obesity
Smoking
Signs and Symptoms
Often none in the early stages
Persistent heartburn or chest discomfort
Regurgitation of sour liquid or food
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Sensation of a lump in the throat (globus)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Barrett's Esophagus
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He begins by reviewing your symptoms - such as frequent heartburn, regurgitation, or chronic throat irritation - along with your lifestyle habits, smoking history, and any previous acid reflux treatment.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Using a thin, flexible camera, Dr. Scott closely examines the lining of your esophagus and stomach to detect visible signs of Barrett's Esophagus, such as changes in color or texture of the tissue.
Biopsy
If any suspicious areas are identified, small tissue samples are taken during the endoscopy to confirm the presence of intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia under a microscope.
pH Monitoring
Ambulatory 24-hour pH testing is performed to measure the amount and duration of acid exposure in the lower esophagus, confirming chronic reflux as a contributing factor.
Esophageal Manometry
This test measures the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions, helping rule out motility disorders that can coexist with or mimic reflux-related changes.
Additional Imaging (if needed)
Upper GI barium series to evaluate for hiatal hernia or esophageal narrowing.
CT scan in rare cases to examine adjacent structures if advanced disease is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Barrett's Esophagus.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat smaller meals more frequently to reduce reflux
Avoid spicy, fatty, or highly acidic foods that trigger symptoms
Lose weight if needed to decrease abdominal pressure
Do not lie down immediately after eating
Raise the head of your bed to prevent nighttime reflux
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake to protect your esophagus
2. Medications
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for strong, long-lasting acid control
Hâ‚‚ blockers for moderate symptom relief when needed
Antacids for quick, short-term relief of heartburn
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) to heat and remove damaged esophageal lining
Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) to excise larger areas of abnormal tissue
Cryotherapy to freeze and destroy precancerous cells
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Barrett's Esophagus?
It is usually caused by years of untreated acid reflux or GERD that alter the lining of the esophagus.
Is Barrett's Esophagus dangerous?
No, it is not cancer, but it does increase the risk of developing esophageal cancer if left untreated or unmonitored.
What is the ICD-10 code for Barrett's Esophagus?
The most commonly used code is K22.70, which denotes Barrett's Esophagus without dysplasia.
How is treatment chosen?
Dr. Scott creates a personalized plan based on the extent of cellular changes found in your biopsy and your overall symptoms.
How often will I need an endoscopy?
Most patients undergo surveillance endoscopy every few years, with frequency determined by biopsy results and cancer risk factors.
Can home remedies reverse Barrett's Esophagus?
No. While lifestyle and dietary changes can improve symptoms and reduce acid exposure, they cannot reverse the cellular changes.
Is Barrett's Esophagus genetic?
Genetics may play a minor role, but long-term acid reflux is the primary cause of Barrett's Esophagus.
