Barrett's Esophagitis - What is Barrett's Esophagitis?

When researching the term Barrett's Esophagitis, you'll discover something interesting: such an exact condition doesn't exist. Well, it isn't that simple, but that's the gist. Barrett's Esophagitis has become a kind of colloquialism for Barrett's Esophagus. The term esophagitis is actually incorrect. So what is Barrett's Esophagus?

Barrett's Esophagus is usually the result of chronic GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, which you may know more simply as acid reflux or even more simply as heartburn. It represents either a temporary or permanent change to the lining of the barrier between the stomach and the esophagus (the muscular passage of your digestive tract connecting your mouth and your stomach).

The cells that line your stomach and intestines are actually quite a bit different than the cells that line your esophagus. When Barrett's esophagus occurs, your body starts to produce the equivalent of intestinal cells along the lining of your esophagus. This is an abnormal cell growth and thus Barrett's Esophagus has been indicated as a common precursor to esophageal cancer. A little bit of heartburn can lead to so much more of a dire circumstance if you are not careful.

In most cases, this abnormal cell growth is believed to result from either chronic GERD or a hiatal hernia (where part of your stomach protrudes out into your thorax). Both can result in the acids and biles of your stomach leaking upwards into your esophagus. Over time, your body responds by producing cells along your esophagus which are more accustomed to exposure to these acids and biles.

Another way Barrett's can occur is through the development of a weakened lower esophageal sphincter. This sphincter is basically the doorway between your stomach and your esophagus. If it weakens, it may not close off and seal your esophagus from your stomach as well as it should.

A weakened lower esophageal sphincter can result from GERD, a hiatal hernia or as a side-effect of stress, physical exertion or obesity. If you have this condition or esophageal cancer in your family, you should be vigilant in your handling of stress and obesity. If you are diagnosed with any of these ailments, I strongly encourage you to take measures to reduce both your stress and your body fat percentage.

You should note that as these cells change along your esophagus, you may actually experience less pain in some cases. Don't be fooled; this does not mean you are healing. Instead it forms an argument for why you should be examined for Barrett's Esophagitis if you experience GERD.