Barrett’s Esophagus

Specialists at Houston Methodist Lynda K. and David M. Underwood Center for Digestive Health treat Barrett’s esophagus using a collaborative, team-based approach to specialized medical treatment.

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition where the esophageal lining is damaged by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Our nationally and internationally recognized specialists at the Underwood Center offer personalized treatment options. Houston Methodist Hospital is ranked No. 7 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for Gastroenterology & GI Surgery. U.S. News & World Report has also named Houston Methodist Hospital the No. 1 hospital in Texas every year since the award began and one of the nation’s best as a nationally ranked Honor Roll hospital.

If you’ve been suffering with heartburn and antacids aren’t relieving your symptoms, you might have Barrett’s esophagus. Meet with your doctor, who will examine the lining of your esophagus to see if it is thickening and transitioning from healthy whitish pink to inflamed red.

Barrett’s esophagus is characterized by more than acid reflux. Because only half of people with Barrett's esophagus report any symptoms of GERD, you should see your doctor with any discomfort of the chest, swallowing mechanisms or digestion in general.

Risk Factors of Barrett's Esophagus

Having one or more of the following factors increases the likelihood of having Barrett's esophagus:

• Age (more common in adults older than 50)
• Being male
• Being overweight
• Being white
• Chronic heartburn and acid reflux
• Current or past smoking
• Family history