Barrett’s EsophagusNutritional Science Period ¾
Mr. Crull
Kelly Chen, Razia Begum, Haesol Jun, Nabila Anwara
What is an esophagus?
Digestive system
a muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach using the process of peristalsis
a normal esophagus is lined with a pinkish-white mucous membrane
What is Barrett’s Esophagus
color and composition of the cells lining the esophagus change because of repeated exposure to stomach acid
the normal pinkish-white mucus membrane is replaced by an abnormal red membrane(similar to the normal membrane found in the stomach)
Barrett’s Esophagus Normal Esophagus
continued…What is it?
is a serious form of GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) the regurgitation of acid from your stomach into your esophagus
Symptoms…
Heartburn Ulcers Burning sensation in the
back of the throat Narrowing of the esophagus
that comes from scarring. Having trouble swallowing. Vomiting blood/bleeding.
Commonly Found In…
adults (1% of adults in the United States have it)
found three times more often in males than in females
middle-aged or elderly Caucasian men are affected more frequently found less in minority populations
is uncommon in children
Deal with it…
No medications to reverse condition, but can slow the progression
Avoid smoking and tobacco products(Nicotine in the blood weakens Lower Esophageal Sphincter)
Avoid fatty foods, caffeine, citrus fruits, spices, & alcohol
Elevate the head of the bed or mattress 6 to 8 inches. (helps to keep acid in the stomach)
Why is it so Dangerous?
Increased risk of developing esophageal cancer Can lead to: Dysplasia (precancerous changes)
From none to serious changes Invasive Cancer
Can attack lymph nodes from esophagus
How can Barrett’s Esophagus be treated?
Controlling GERD/B.E by:Avoid foods that cause heartburnStop smoking etc.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)Block production of acids
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)Use of Photofrin to detect Barrett’s tissue and
remove them by laser surgery
Bibliography
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/barretts-esophagus/HQ00312
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/barretts/
http://www.gicare.com/diseases/Barrett-esophagus.aspx