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