Barrett's Esophagus in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is Barrett's esophagus?
Barrett’s esophagus is connected with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This issue is present when the regular tissue lining of the esophagus shifts to resemble intestinal tissue. Despite the fact that the risk of esophageal cancer rises in patients who deal with Barrett’s esophagus, the outlook for forming cancer due to this GI problem is less than 1%. In the event that you or your family member has gastroesophageal reflux disease, then we urge you to schedule routine appointments with a Denver, CO GI doctor to supervise your issue and look for signs of Barrett's esophagus. You can identify a local GI doctor through Colorado Gastroenterology.
Who gets Barrett’s esophagus?
The dominant cause of Barrett’s esophagus includes long-term unmanaged GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Not everyone that has GERD develops Barrett’s esophagus, but if the condition is neglected, over time it is likely that an individual will develop Barrett’s. Indicators of increased risk include:
- Being middle-aged or older
- Genetics
- Being male
- Being caucasian
- Those with extra stomach fat
- Smokers or having been a smoker
Our digestive health specialists provide personalized care for Barrett's esophagus in Denver, CO. If you think you might be at risk, please reach out to our team to request an appointment.
What are the signs of Barrett's esophagus?
Most people notice no specific signs associated with the cellular changes of Barrett’s esophagus. Often, people with this condition might not show any warnings or symptoms.
If you have been experiencing heartburn or other similar troubles for long periods of time, the Colorado Gastroenterology physicians recommend talking with and being tested by your gastroenterologist. The only definite approach to find out whether you have this condition is to carry out a front-end GI endoscopy and take an exam of the tissue in your esophagus.
Common indicators connected with Barrett’s esophagus:
- Unyielding acid reflux (heartburn)
- Chest pain (less common)
- Difficulty swallowing food or liquids
What are the treatments for Barrett’s esophagus?
Care for Barrett’s esophagus differs from other GI ailments. The particular attention you receive is based on the level of abnormal cell formation, known as dysplasia, present in your esophageal lining.
The multiple phases of dysplasia (atypical tissue development) and common treatments include:
- Non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus: Although no atypical tissue is found, it is still essential to schedule routine endoscopy tests with your doctor to look for alterations to the tissue in the esophagus. Your physician will also normally advise solutions similar to those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (like lifestyle recommendations or medication).
- Low-grade dysplasia: With a small amount of abnormal tissue growth, you may need to receive endoscopic resection or radiofrequency ablation for treatment.
- Severe dysplasia: With a larger level of change in the tissue, freezing treatments, photodynamic treatments, or a surgical procedure might be necessary.
Help and hope for Barrett's esophagus
If you are dealing with constant heartburn, then neglecting your condition can lead to Barrett's esophagus. This serious but treatable issue of acid reflux can be identified and managed by a qualified gastroenterologist. To connect with a GI doctor who will work with you to manage your GI issue, including Barrett's esophagus, please contact the experts at Colorado Gastroenterology. As a best-in-class network of gastroenterologists, Colorado Gastroenterology has leading experts in conditions such as Barrett's esophagus. Reach out to our Denver, CO practice to connect with your specialist in GI wellness now.
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Very well organized before and during appt. Liked that I was given homework to ensure a successful treatment plan.
Dr. Rufner listens and hears what the patient has to say. Then doctor and patient can come up with a solution. I've been seeing Dr. Rufner for several years and wouldn't consider seeing anyone else. He helped me through my recovery after colon cancer. I highly recommended Dr. Rufner.
Dr. Rufner was extremely easy to talk with. He used language that was easily understood. I was asked several times if I understood what he was telling me and was asked if I had questions. I look forward to meeting him in person.
Dr. Ruffnor was the only doctor to figure out my problem, in 10 months Hes old school - he listens, hears and encourages discussion.
I have been a patient of Dr. Kevin Rufner with Colorado Gastroenterology for many years, and it has always been a positive experience. Dr. Rufner is a kind and caring human being who really listens to his patients. He never makes me feel rushed or hurried, gives me up-to-date information about my health complaints, and always comes up with a complete plan of care for every issue. Additionally, his staff are friendly and supportive. I cannot recommend Dr. Rufner enough. He is an excellent doctor with an excellent staff.
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