Barrett's Esophagus

Symptoms

Barrett's esophagus often does not exhibit specific symptoms. But heartburn and acid regurgitation — the bad-tasting liquid that enters the mouth from the throat — are common indicators of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD can lead to Barrett's esophagus.

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A telltale sign of Barrett's esophagus is the color of the tissue lining the lower esophagus, visible with endoscopy, which can change from its normal pink to a reddish color. This process, called metaplasia, is caused by repeated and long-term exposure to stomach acid in the esophagus.

Other signs and symptoms of GERD, Barrett's esophagus or esophageal cancer include:

• Dysphagia — Difficulty in swallowing, often due to a narrowing of the esophagus (stricture)
• Bleeding — Vomiting red blood or blood that looks like coffee grounds
• Unusual stools — Passing black, tarry or bloody stools
• Weight loss — Unexpected weight loss