Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's Esophagus is a form of long-term gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) affecting 700,000 Americans, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The esophagus is the tube that carries food to the stomach to be digested. When acids in the stomach rise repeatedly, they change the color and make-up of cells lining the esophagus. This results in the development of Barrett's Esophagus, which, unlike GERD, can lead to cancer of the esophagus. Natural treatments for this condition assist in minimizing the risk of esophageal cancer.
See also : Acid Reflux Disease (GERD)

Symptoms

• Regurgitation of partially digested food and stomach acid
• Angina-like chest pain
• Chronic cough; frequent throat-clearing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bloating and gas
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Nausea
• Hoarseness; laryngitis
• Loss of tooth enamel

Home remedies

• Lifestyle Changes : Barrett's Esophagus can be cured simply by the elimination of foods, beverages and habits that increase the risk of acid exposure to the esophagus. Common health risks include tobacco and alcohol use, but Barrett's Esophagus is also cured by reducing the amount of spicy, refined or processed foods in the diet, along with avoiding soft drinks and aspirin.
• Losing weight is also beneficial; excess weight puts additional pressure on the abdomen and pushes up the stomach, causing acid to back up in the esophagus.
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
• Digestive Enzymes
• Lemon Water : Lemon helps to reduce the amount of acids in the body, and has other health benefits that affect the digestive tract. Water with lemon juice acts as a natural cleanser, removing germs and bacteria through the liver and kidneys and helping the digestive tract to eliminate waste more efficiently.
• Lying Down : Do not lie down until an hour after eating. Keep the head and upper body elevated and maintain a position where the body is at a slight downward angle with t head at the top, feet lower. This allows gravity to do its job, holding the acid down in the stomach. Laying with the feet elevated above the head allows the stomach acids to more easily reach the esophagus.
• licorice is effective in the treatment of Barrett's esophagus.
• Omega-3 fatty acids are Nature’s anti-inflammatory, and that includes helping to soothe inflammation in your digestive tract.
• Aspirin and NSAIDs decrease the risk of Barrett’s esophagus and may protect against cancer of the esophagus
• Limiting intake of acid-stimulating foods and beverages
• Elevating the head a few inches while you sleep
• Quit smoking
• Avoiding drink alcohol
• Not wearing belts or clothes that are tight fitting around the waist

Warnings

Although Barrett's esophagus symptoms are usually the same as acid reflux/GERD, it's also possible to have NO symptoms at all. This can be especially dangerous because people with Barrett's esophagus have an increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (Esophageal Cancer) – one of the most rapidly increasing cancers in the United States. So to not even know you have Barrett's esophagus means it can quietly exist and manifest into cancer.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.