Harvard Health Publishing And 3 More Doctors Weigh In On: How Do You Keep Your Barrett's Esophagus From Progressing?

Barretts Esophagus image

Answered by Dr. Howard E. Lewine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

Barrett’s esophagus happens when persistent acid reflux irritates squamous cells near the stomach causing them to become glandular cells. These glandular cells are more likely to become cancerous than squamous cells. Once endoscopy shows Barrett’s esophagus, biopsies are taken to look for abnormal cellular changes. The main prevention therapy to stop progression of the disease is treatment of acid reflux, including a daily or twice daily proton pump inhibitor.

Answered by Dr. Marcelle Freire

Doctor of Medicine · 3 years of experience · Brazil

Barrett’s esophagus is a metaplasia – a replacement of the typical cells of the esophagus with intestinal cells. Although it is a premalignant lesion, less than 0.5% of patients progress to cancer per year. Metaplasia is induced by the aggression of gastric pH on the cells of the esophagus and intensive treatment of this aggression is one of the main pillars to prevent the progression of Barrett’s esophagus to cancer. Additional non-drug therapies include dietary changes (avoiding foods that worsen reflux, such as chocolate, coffee, tea, alcohol, and high-fat foods), eating meals just before going to bed, lying down soon after eating, and eating large meals.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to barretts esophagus.

Answered by Dr. Raghu Bhokya

MBBS · 7 years of experience · India

Barrett’s esophagus is prevented from progressing by controlling and treating the acid reflux. This acid reflux is controlled by diet modification and life style changes. Smoking and alcohol should be strictly stopped. Proper and regular taking of medications and drinking plenty of water can prevent from progressing further.

Answered by Dr. Mohan P. Abraham

M.D., FAAFP (Family Physician) · 40 years of experience · USA

Following a healthy, balanced diet may help prevent Barrett’s esophagus from worsening.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.