Barrett's Esophagus in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is a GI issue that is present if the normal tissue lining the esophagus alters to become more like the tissue that lines your intestines. This condition often leads to heartburn and chest pain since it is an issue connected with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Despite the fact that the risk of getting esophageal cancer is higher in patients who have Barrett’s esophagus, the risk of getting cancer from this GI condition is less than 1%. If you suffer from GERD, we urge you to maintain recurring visits with a Denver, CO digestive health provider. They can oversee your health and check for signs of Barrett's esophagus. Together, we can maintain your overall GI health and wellness. Contact your nearest Denver Digestive Health Specialists location to request a consultation.
Who gets Barrett’s esophagus?
The main reason for Barrett’s esophagus includes long-term neglected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD doesn't necessarily always develop into Barrett’s esophagus; however, if the condition is neglected over the years, it is possible that someone will get Barrett’s. You could be at an increased risk if you are:
- Overweight or obese
- Have a family history of Barrett's esophagus
- A man
- Over age 50
- Caucasian
- A smoker or have been a smoker
If you have any of the associated risk factors and fear you may be at risk of Barrett's esophagus, please feel free to reach out to us as soon as possible.
What are the indicators of Barrett's esophagus?
Often, there are no signs or symptoms of Barrett’s esophagus. However, if you have been experiencing acid reflux or other forms of GI troubles for a while, the team at Denver Digestive Health Specialists recommends visiting your nearest Denver, CO location. The only definite way to diagnose whether you have Barrett’s esophagus is to have an upper GI scope and examine the tissue lining in your esophagus.
Common symptoms connected with Barrett’s esophagus:
- Swallowing trouble
- A burning sensation in the chest (not as common)
- Frequent acid reflux (heartburn)
What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?
Treating Barrett’s esophagus differs from other gastrointestinal problems. The type of intervention you receive depends on the degree of atypical tissue presence (dysplasia) in the esophagus lining.
The varying degrees of dysplasia and possible treatments are:
- Non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus: Although no abnormal cells are found, it is still vital to schedule routine testing with your GI provider to detect modifications to the tissue in the esophagus. Your GI specialist will also typically recommend interventions similar to those who have GERD (like behavioral changes or medication).
- Mild dysplasia: With a minimal level of abnormal cell formation, you may need to receive endoscopic resection or radiofrequency ablation for removal.
- High-grade dysplasia: For those who have a larger amount of change in the esophageal tissue, freezing treatments, light-based treatments, or surgery could be needed.
Help and hope for Barrett's esophagus
If you have unyielding heartburn, neglecting it may lead to Barrett's esophagus. This severe but repairable complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease can be verified and managed by a qualified gastroenterologist. If you'd like to find a gastroenterologist who will partner with you to treat your Barrett's esophagus in Denver, CO, we invite you to call us to request a consultation. As a physician-led network of GI specialists, Denver Digestive Health Specialists is proud to have experience and authority on issues such as Barrett's esophagus.
Reviews
All staff were great. Kat was super nice and informative. Dr. Miller was great. Attentive and non-judgemental. Definitely felt comfortable expressing my concerns and he he listened and I left feeling like I had a plan together and all questions for now answered.
Dr. Miller has helped me better understand my GI challenges and how best to manage them. He is knowledgeable about my situation and has listened quite intently to my concerns. Questions asked, have been answered to my satisfaction. I appreciate Dr. Miller’s attentiveness and understanding. I look forward to my next professional encounter.
Dr Siegal is absolutely my lifesaver guy!! Have been seeing him for almost 20 years. He is the reason I have had extra years. Thanks Dr. Siegel!! And thanks Michelle for always being able to make me feel so assured. You guys are the best of all!! Same as always!! He's awesome!!
I highly recommend Dr. New to any new/existing patients. While he is a fabulous doctor, I must give kudos to his assistant, Kat, for being so accommodating in squeezing me in for a procedure immediately, following up with thorough instructions and emails and calling to confirm details.
A caring, highly competent and thorough practitioner. Highly recommended!
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