Symptoms & Signs
Barrett’s esophagus itself does not cause symptoms. The acid reflux that causes Barrett’s esophagus often leads to symptoms of heartburn. However, many patients with this condition do not have symptoms.
Diagnosis & Tests
If GERD symptoms are severe or they come back after you have been treated, the doctor may perform an endoscopy.
- A thin tube with a camera on the end is inserted through your mouth and then passed into your esophagus and stomach.
- While looking at the esophagus with the endoscope, the doctor may perform biopsies in different parts of the esophagus. These biopsies help diagnose Barrett’s esophagus, as well as look for changes that could lead to cancer.
Follow-up endoscopies may be recommended for some patients.
Review Date : 8/1/2009
Reviewed By : George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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