Suggest Treatment While Suffering From Barrett's Esophagus

Posted on Mon, 13 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 13 Jul 2015 Answered on

Mon, 3 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I've been doing a lot of thinking, and just can't seem to figure this one out. Last year I had an endoscopy done and all that was found was a small hiatal hernia, and a bit of berretts esophagus. I was on omeprazole for years, the doc recently switched me to pantoprazole because the omeprazole stopped working. I just had my second endoscopy and now they are saying the berrets is worse, and I have dysplasia and an erosion. So he's doubled my dosage and wants another endoscopy in six months. So I'm taking 40mg of the pantoprazole twice a day, that seems like a lot. This is all very sudden for me. How can I go from basically being fine to this in just a year? Am I worrying about nothing? I can't get a clear answer on what it all means. But with the steps he's taking it can't be good can it? Can you please tell me what dysplasia and erosions are so I can better understand. I really appreciate your time and help. XXXX

Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (-4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Barrett's esophagus

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
The first thing you need to understand is that Barrett's esophagus is a precancerous condition. It has to be followed carefully so that if cancer develops it can be treated as soon as possible.
Dysplasia is a condition where the cells are not normal but also have not turned in to cancer. Erosions are small ulcers in the lining of the stomach.
It is very important for you to do everything possible to avoid reflux and further irritating the esophagus. Don't miss doses of the pantoprazole. Avoid alcohol, tobacco and acidic foods like citrus or tomatoes. If you are overweight work with your doctor on a plan to get back to a normal body weight.
Let me know if you have further questions.
Dr. Robinson

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar