Barrett's Esophagus in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderAbout Barrett's esophagus
Barrett's esophagus is a potential outcome of untreated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This disease occurs if the regular tissue in your swallowing tube shifts to look like the tissue lining your intestines. Although the risk of cancer of the esophagus grows with individuals who are diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus, the risk of developing cancer as a result of this condition is less than 1%. In the event that you or a family member experiences gastroesophageal reflux disease, then we advise that you maintain regular visits with an Lubbock, TX gastroenterologist who can supervise your condition and look for indications of Barrett's esophagus. You can find a gastrointestinal specialist ready to help you at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates .
Who gets Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett's esophagus is chiefly caused by long-term neglected gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD won't necessarily develop into Barrett's esophagus, but if the disease is left untreated, over several years, it is possible that someone might get Barrett's. Indicators of increased risk involve:
- Those who are men
- Being older
- Family health history
- Those who are white
- Current smoking or having a history of smoking
- Having large amounts of belly fat
Our GI specialists offer individualized treatment for Barrett's esophagus in Lubbock, TX. If you believe you might be at risk, please contact our team to schedule a consultation.
Symptoms of Barrett's esophagus
The tissue changes caused by Barrett's esophagus don't cause any symptoms you might notice in your day-to-day life. Individuals living with Barrett's esophagus often show no indications of it.
In the event that you have had heartburn or other types of troubles for prolonged durations, the physicians at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates advise speaking to a gastroenterologist about testing for esophageal issues. The only definite way to find out whether you have Barrett's esophagus is to perform a front-end GI endoscopy and conduct a biopsy of the tissue in your esophagus.
The symptoms associated with Barrett's esophagus include:
- Regular heartburn (acid reflux)
- Chest pain (not as common)
- Having a hard time swallowing food or drinks
What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?
Barrett's esophagus has a unique treatment approach compared to other digestive health disorders. The form of therapy provided corresponds with the stage of atypical tissue presence, known as dysplasia, in the lining of the esophagus.
The different phases of dysplasia (precancerous cell formation) and common solutions for them include:
- No dysplasia: Though no abnormal tissue is discovered, it is still essential to schedule routine endoscopy tests by your GI doctor to check for changes in the tissue in the esophagus. Your GI specialist will also usually suggest care much like that of GERD (such as behavioral modifications or prescription medication).
- Mild-grade dysplasia: With a small level of precancerous cell formation, you could need to receive endoscopic mucosal resection or RF ablation for removal.
- High-grade dysplasia: For a substantial amount of precancerous esophageal lining, freezing treatments, photodynamic treatments, or surgery could be needed.
Help and hope for Barrett's esophagus
If you live with severe or frequent acid reflux, then neglecting your condition may lead to Barrett's esophagus. This alarming but repairable complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease can be assessed and managed by a qualified gastroenterologist. If you want to find a GI doctor who will partner with you to manage your gastrointestinal tract affliction, such as Barrett's esophagus, please call the team at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates . As a board-certified network of GI specialists, Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates is home to skilled authorities on conditions such as Barrett's esophagus. Contact our digestive health facility in Lubbock, TX to find a specialist in GI care today.
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Dr Miller has one of the most efficient and well run offices I've ever been in. Everyone I have dealt with has been friendly, helpful, knowledgeable, and professional. Dr Miller himself is thorough and personable, and I'm thankful my PCP referred me to him!
Dr. Jabor is a great doctor. I’ve been seeing him for the past 6 years. He listens to what I have to say, and I don’t feel like I am being rushed to get out of the room. He always ask if everything is ok. Thanks Dr. Jabor!
Dr. Fenton always goes above and beyond to resolve my health issues. When I was waiting for biopsy results over the Christmas holiday, he called me on a Sunday on his day off so I wouldn't have to worry all vacation about my results. Again, I had some follow up imaging done recently and he called me on a Sunday to tell me my results and decide on a game plan with me. If you are looking for a collaborative and compassionate Gastroenterologist, look no further!
My visits with Dr. Ganga have been helpful, prompt and successful in meeting the desired and needed treatment. Her staff were also helpful and efficient.
I highly recommend Dr Hughston! I traveled 3.5 hrs just to see him because my doctors in San Angelo could not get me in for procedures for four months. His office established me as a patient and he got my procedures scheduled in two weeks! Friendly, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions and concerns. I felt heard and valued as a patient. I’m thankful he was recommended to me and I would recommend him to my friends and family.
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