Barret's esophagus

What does Barret's esophagus consist of?

If you have Barret's esophagus, then part of the esophageal wall has changed. Thisis caused by the reflux of the gastric acids that this illness produces. This changedoes not mean we are facing cancer, but it might develop into it at a later stage.

When is gastroesophageal reflux present?

When the GER (gastroesophageal reflux) ascends to the esophagus. The esophagusis a tube that takes the food from the mouth to the stomach. The gastric juices helpdigestion. Cardia is a muscle that prevents the gastric juices from entering theesophagus. When this muscle weakens, we encounter a gastroesophageal refluxdisease (GERD).

Changes in the wall

The stomach protects itself from the juices thanks to a special wall. These juices arenormally not present in the esophagus, so it does not need a tough wall to withstandthem. If the juices enter the esophagus during a GERD, they harm the esophagealwall. In order to protect itself from the action of the juices, the esophagus needs tobuild a resistant wall, which ends in the development of Barret's esophagus. Thechange in the wall is not physiological. If the change goes on, it can develop intocancer.

GERD symptoms: (they may not be present)

• Heartburn • Acid taste in your mouth (in case the acid reaches your mouth) • Discomfort after having a meal, like when you lie down. • Belching

CLINICAL STUDY

Sometimes, Barret's esophagus is only noticed by chance because it does not alwayspresent any symptoms. A test for Barret's esophagus will be performed in case the GERD symptoms are severe. The best procedure for the diagnosis is endoscopy, as it permits seeing your esophagus’ interior.

Endoscopy

It is a test of your digestive tract. It is performed with a long and flexible tube with a camera and a light. This tube is introduced carefully through your mouth until itreaches the distal part of the esophagus, where Barret's esophagus is normallylocated. Then, some samples are taken and sent for analysis. Your doctor will indicate how to prepare for the endoscopy. Please follow themthoroughly.

How to prevent late damages

In order to follow any changes in the esophageal wall, your doctor will indicateregular checkups. You will also be given recommendations in order to control theGERD and prevent any worsening of the Barret's esophagus.

Lifestyle changes

Lose weight Avoid any food that worsens the GERD, like high-fat diets or chocolate Avoid alcohol and smoking

Medication

Your doctor may prescribe some medication to control your GERD.

In case surgery is needed

Surgery may be necessary for your GERD in case it does not respond to thepharmacological treatment. It can also be used for the control of cancer. Your doctor will give you more information on this.

Fax: +34 91 750 04 55

General surgery appointment telephone number: +34 91 756 79 00. Ext:4136

Outpatient appointment telephone number: +34 91 756 79 00 / 902 10 74 71

Hospital telephone number: +34 91 756 78 00