Acid Reflux? Gerd? or Barrett's Esophagus?.The Importance Of A Speedy Diagnosis.

Most of us at some point will suffer from acid reflux, that is, when there is a reflux of stomach acid back up into the esophagus .It’s usually fairly predictable - following a heavy meal, fried or spicy food, and /or coffee and alcohol.

For many people this is an occasional occurrence and the symptoms quickly disappear if an over the counter antacid is taken by mouth.

However, for 20% of the population, for whom these episodes are more frequent i.e.twice a week or more, and following appropriate medical investigations,the likelihood is they are suffering from GERD.

So what is GERD?

GERD is Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease or Reflux Esophagitis

Symptoms of GERD:

1/ Acid reflux, often triggered by specific foods or drinks.

2/ Acid reflux, often triggered by almost every food or drink.

3/ Pain and burning sensation in the chest on bending over or lying flat.

4/ A feeling of heaviness in the chest after a meal.

5/ Sometimes throat soreness, hoarseness, sinusitis, and snoring.

There are a number of pre-disposing factors which increase a person’s chance of developing GERD:

1/ Diet: the chances of suffering from the above symptoms are increased by approximately 70% if a person eats a lot of fatty or sugary foods

2/Obesity: it is more likely in people who are over-weight.

3/Smoking: Not only is smoking a major causative factor, but, it also exacerbates the condition.

4/Often there is a pre-existing hiatus hernia or slackening of muscles between the stomach and the esophagus.

Many GERD sufferers will continue to take regular antacids, often very frequently, and just ‘put up’ with the condition.

If the above symptoms are familiar to you-see a doctor.

Barrett’s Oesophagus:

Currently, about 1 in 200 people suffering from GERD,have a more serious condition ,known as Barrett’s Esophagus. Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which cells that line the esophagus are damaged by long-term exposure to acid escaping from the stomach. People with Barrett's esophagus are known to have an increased risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Statistics currently show that 1 out of 100 people with this condition may go on to develop cancer. (Current UK statistics).

For the diagnosis of Barrett’s the following steps must be taken:

See a medical specialist. The doctor will confirm the existence of Barrett’s by telescopic examination of the esophagus and stomach, EGD, and biopsy.

The biopsy will show evidence, if any, of dysplasia, that is, cell changes. The level of future monitoring will be decided based on these results. Currently, for people with Barrett’s an EGD  is recommended from 3 monthly to annually.

New symptoms, such as difficulty in swallowing, vomiting blood or weight loss, require urgent medical attention .

You can help reduce symptoms:

Losing weight, if necessary;

Eating small meals at regular intervals;

Allowing time for food to be digested before going to bed;

Avoid bending over;

Stop smoking;

Follow Medical advice: Barrett’s Oesophagus can lead to complications such as ulcers in the gullet, bleeding, difficulty in swallowing due to a narrowing of the gullet (stricture), and cancer.

The majority of people who have Barrett’s Oesophagus may have no serious consequences,but consistent monitoring by a medical specialist is imperative.

The study of Barrett’s is very much a work in progress. If you or any one close to you suffer from the above symptoms, get a check –up. It could save a life.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/barretts-esophagus/HQ00312

http://www.barrettsinfo.com/content/4_is_there_a_cure.cfm

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