The food pipe, or oesophagus, is a tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. It facilitates the transit of food and aids in the digestive process. The oesophagus is a structurally complicated tube that is prone to a variety of disorders, including GERD, which leads to Barrett’s illness, says Dr. Sanjoy Mandal, who is considered to be the best gastro surgeon in Kolkata.
What Exactly Is Barrett’s Disease
The oesophagus undergoes significant changes – a result of acid reflux and the food components that affect the inner lining of the oesophagus. As a result, healthy cells become specialised columnar cells. The internal damage leads to ulcers and heartburn. Barrett’s disease, if left untreated, can raise the chance of oesophageal cancer in rare cases.
GERD – The Real Cause
There are numerous factors that contribute to this illness, although the specific cause is unknown. People with GERD, on the other hand, are more likely to be diagnosed with Barrett’s.
GERD, also known as stomach problem or acid reflux, is a disorder in which a person’s food pipe is damaged for an extended period of time owing to acid burn. Gastric reflux can be caused by a variety of factors, including lifestyle, eating habits, obesity, inactivity, and so on. GERD can also be caused by oesophageal swelling.
Barrett’s disease is thought to be more common in those who eat a large number of meals in a short period of time. Barrett’s disease can be caused by exercising right after a meal or sleeping, explains the experienced gastrointestinal surgeon in Kolkata. However, in order to ascertain the truth, much research is required in these areas.
Barrett’s Disease Symptoms
Here are a few symptoms to look out for in the early stages of this ailment.
- The individual may have chest pain, heaviness in the upper body, and heartburn.
- There is also nausea, vomiting, and throat pain.
- In a few cases, swallowing and respiratory difficulties are also present.
- Regurgitation, or the backward flow of food, is a common symptom.
Apart from the abovementioned symptoms, the person may experience an unpleasant and sour taste in his/her mouth, as well as an increase in saliva output for no apparent cause.
What are the Risk Factors
Because Barrett’s disease is incurable, it’s a good idea to see if you fall into the risk category. Take a look at the Barrett’s disease risk factors, as listed by the top gastroenterology doctor.
- Age: Barrett’s disease is more common in older people than in young adults.
- Gender: Men are at a higher risk than women. Barrett’s disease is common in both males and women.
- Obesity: Barrett’s disease is one of the digestive concerns that overweight persons confront.
- Lifestyle: People who eat spicy meals, consume a lot of red meat, smoke heavily, or are alcoholics are all at danger.
Barrett’s Disease Treatment
Endoscopy and biopsy (if necessary) are used to confirm the diagnosis, and the gastroenterologist surgeon in Kolkata customises the treatment plan as per the diagnostic test results.
How can You Prevent Barrett’s Disease
You have entire control over reversing the condition. All that is required for the reversal is a healthy diet, advised lifestyle changes, and the best gastro care. Quit smoking, avoid spicy foods, maintain a healthy weight, and get the treatment you need for GERD before it progresses to Barrett’s illness.