People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) experience repeated bouts of acid reflux, which can cause issues with the oesophagus. One of these issues is Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition where the oesophagus becomes damaged and inflamed.
Barrett’s oesophagus is associated with a slight increase in a person’s cancer risk, so it is important to address the effects of GERD as soon as possible. In this case, medication is usually the first line of treatment.
With Barrett’s oesophagus, doctors must assess the level of dysplasia evident in the oesophagus before recommending treatment. Dysplasia refers to the presence of precancerous cells in the oesophagus, which requires more aggressive treatment.
In the event that there is no dysplasia present, your doctor will likely recommend medication to manage GERD. Medications can reduce how much acid your stomach produces, which allows time for the oesophagus to heal.
Additionally, some medications can also help soothe the oesophagus while decreasing the amount of stomach acid. Both prescription and non-prescription medications are available when treating GERD, and your doctor can recommend a specific medication based on your needs.
Properly managing GERD is key to treating Barrett’s oesophagus, so people with the condition are encouraged to make certain lifestyle changes. These changes can include:
In the event that medications and home remedies are ineffective, your doctor may recommend a surgical procedure to treat GERD. These procedures can be performed laparoscopically, which speeds up healing time and reduces risks.