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Baylor Clinic Healthletters

Barrett's Esophagus

By Yasser H. Shaib, MD, MPH and Hashem B. El-Serag, MD, MPH

Symptoms

Barrett's esophagus develops in response to the esophagus' prolonged, untreated exposure to stomach acid via gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If left untreated, Barrett's esophagus can develop into cancer. Patients with Barrett's esophagus also have an increased risk for developing ulcers and the narrowing of their esophagus, which can lead to problems swallowing food.

See an expert gastroenterologist if the following symptoms occur more than once a week, or persist for four years or more:

  • Heartburn
  • Stomach acid regurgitation
  • Sour taste in mouth

Risk Factors

Your risk of developing Barrett's esophagus increases if GERD symptoms occur several times a week or if GERD persists for four years or more. Additional risk factors associated with Barrett's esophagus include:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
  • White male
  • Age is greater than 50
  • Obesity
  • Tobacco smoking
  • Family history of Barrett's esophagus, esophageal cancer or GERD

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