Barrett's Esophagus: Causes, Risks, and What You Need to Know

When stomach acid keeps backing up into your esophagus for years, it can change the lining of your esophagus — that’s Barrett's esophagus, a condition where the normal tissue lining the esophagus is replaced by tissue similar to the intestinal lining. Also known as Barrett’s syndrome, it doesn’t cause symptoms on its own, but it’s a warning sign that your acid reflux has been severe and long-lasting. This isn’t cancer, but it does increase your chance of developing esophageal cancer, a rare but aggressive cancer that starts in the lining of the esophagus. About 1 in 200 people with Barrett’s esophagus will develop it each year — low, but high enough to warrant monitoring.

Most people with Barrett’s esophagus have a history of GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease, a chronic form of acid reflux that happens at least twice a week. If you’ve had heartburn or regurgitation for more than 10 years, especially if you’re over 50, male, white, overweight, or a smoker, your risk goes up. The body tries to protect itself from acid by changing the cell type — but that change, called metaplasia, can sometimes turn into dysplasia, abnormal cell growth that’s a step closer to cancer. Not everyone with Barrett’s gets dysplasia, but if you do, your doctor will likely recommend regular endoscopies to catch any changes early.

There’s no cure for Barrett’s esophagus, but you can stop it from getting worse. Controlling acid reflux is the key — that means avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, not lying down after eating, losing weight if needed, and sometimes taking acid-reducing meds like PPIs. Some people even get procedures to remove or destroy the abnormal tissue, like radiofrequency ablation. The goal isn’t just to feel better — it’s to prevent cancer before it starts.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides on how medications, lifestyle changes, and even other health conditions connect to Barrett’s esophagus. From how aspirin might affect your stomach lining to how stress impacts acid reflux, these posts give you the tools to understand your risks and take control. You won’t find fluff here — just clear, direct info that helps you ask the right questions and make smarter choices for your esophagus and overall health.