Barrett's Esophagus in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderAbout Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is a potential health outcome of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). This disease occurs when the normal tissue that lines your esophagus shifts to become more like the tissue lining your intestines. Although the likelihood of esophageal cancer grows with those who are diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, the risk of developing cancer from this GI condition is less than 1%. When you or a loved one suffers with GERD, then we recommend that you arrange routine visits with an Indianapolis, IN digestive health specialist to monitor your health and look for indications of Barrett's esophagus. You can locate a local gastroenterologist at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Who gets Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett's esophagus is mostly brought on by years of neglected acid reflux. Not everyone that has GERD develops Barrett's esophagus; however, if the GERD is left unmanaged, over time, it is conceivable that a patient might get Barrett's. Factors of elevated risk are:
- Family health history
- Those who are male
- Having excess abdominal fat
- Those who are an older adult
- Those who are white
- Smoking or those who have a history of smoking
Our gastroenterology specialists offer personalized treatment for Barrett's esophagus in Indianapolis, IN. If you suspect you could be at risk, please contact our team to set up a consultation.
Indicators of Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus generally doesn't present any noticeable signs. Often, people with this GI ailment might not show any indications or signs.
If you have been experiencing acid reflux or other similar symptoms for prolonged periods of time, our Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology gastroenterologists suggest talking with and being tested by your GI doctor. The only way to diagnose if you have Barrett's esophagus with certainty is to perform a front-end GI endoscopy and perform a biopsy of the tissue in your esophagus.
Common signs associated with Barrett's esophagus:
- Swallowing trouble
- Frequent heartburn (acid reflux)
- Chest pain (less common)
What are the treatments for Barrett's esophagus?
Treatment strategies for Barrett's esophagus are quite different than those for other gastrointestinal disorders. The type of care you receive corresponds with the amount of atypical tissue presence — called dysplasia — existing in the esophageal lining.
The different levels of dysplasia (atypical tissue formation) and potential solutions are:
- No dysplasia: Despite the fact that no atypical cells have been detected, it is still vital to arrange routine endoscopies performed by your doctor to look for changes in the esophageal cells. Your doctor will also usually advise therapies similar to that of GERD (like behavioral changes or prescription drugs).
- Low-grade dysplasia: With a low amount of precancerous cell growth, you could need to receive endoscopic mucosal resection or radiofrequency ablation for removal.
- High-grade dysplasia: With a greater level of abnormal esophagus lining, freezing treatments, light-based treatments, or esophagectomy might be necessary.
Expert care for Barrett's esophagus
If you suffer from GERD, know that your condition may progress to Barrett's esophagus if you neglect it. This severe but treatable problem of GERD can be identified and handled by an expert gastroenterologist. If you want to speak with a GI doctor who can partner alongside you to address your gastrointestinal difficulty, including Barrett's esophagus, we invite you to get in touch with the staff at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. As a best-in-class group of GI specialists, our team boasts experienced experts in issues such as Barrett's esophagus. Reach out to our Indianapolis, IN gastrointestinal practice to find your specialist in digestive wellness today.
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Dr. Vincent and the staff (nurses, anesthesiologists and front desk) at Indy Gastro are always wonderful! However the scheduling office, which I believe is a separate entity, is usually quite frustrating to deal with due to long hold times that often result in just leaving a voicemail, hoping for a return call.
Lindsay Mueller, PA, was very pleasant, professional and took her time to listen to me. I did not feel rushed at all. I was also very pleased that they were on time with my appointment and the receptionist was pleasant and helpful.
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