Barrett's Esophagus - Center For Digestive Health

Barrett’s Esophagus

Overview

Barrett’s esophagus is a health condition that develops when acid reflux damages the esophagus, which is the pink tube connecting the stomach to the mouth. This damage causes the lining of the esophagus to grow thicker and redden in color.

Barrett’s esophagus often develops because of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which involves symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation of food. Barrett’s esophagus is the result of GERD symptoms leading to changes in the cells that line the lower portion of the esophagus.

Men and people with certain risk factors are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus. Those who have GERD or who believe they may be at risk of this condition should consult with a doctor, as Barrett’s esophagus can lead to esophageal cancer in rare cases

Applicable Procedures

24 Hour Ph Probe
EGD
EUS
Radiofrequency Ablation (previously called Halo Barrx)
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection

Does Barrett’s Esophagus Mean I Will Develop Cancer?

According to the Mayo Clinic, Barrett’s esophagus does increase a person’s risk of cancer, but this does not mean that you will develop cancer with this condition. In fact, the risk of cancer is quite low, and most people with Barrett’s esophagus never develop cancer of the esophagus. That being said, it is still important to work with a doctor to monitor the condition, as precancerous cells can be treated to reduce your risk of developing esophageal cancer in the future.

Should I Be Screened For Barrett’s Esophagus?

Experts recommend a Barret’s esophagus screening for individuals with certain risk factors. For instance, men who have weekly GERD symptoms that do not improve with medications, or who have two or more risk factors, such as a family history of Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer, being over age 50, having excess abdominal fat, or being a current or former smoker, should be screened for the condition. While women are less likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus, they should be screened for it if they that uncontrolled GERD symptoms.

How Is Barrett’s Esophagus Treated?

Treatment will depend upon the severity of Barrett’s esophagus. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have no precancerous changes to the cells of your esophagus, a doctor will monitor your condition and provide treatment to manage GERD symptoms. This may include medication, lifestyle changes, and in some cases

Common Symptoms

I find that I suffer from heartburn most days, and sometimes I even feel as if I am regurgitating my food.
I sometimes have trouble swallowing food.
After living with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) for several years, I started to suffer from bouts of chest pain.

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What They Are Saying

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Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills4.8

Based on 6227 reviews

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Gary C.

I was a new patient and I called the office, I believe there were some phone issues however a very nice, friendly & helpful person named Keisha called me later in the day and was wonderful to deal with! Upon arrival at the doctor’ office I was met by a friendly receptionist who was efficient and helpful. Another person upfront took my paperwork, again efficient and helpful. My doctor, Dr. Khan made me feel comfortable, and allowed me to talk about my issues. She gave me her thoughts and recommendations. I was VERY IMPRESSED with the entire team at Troy Gastroenterology!! I would without question recommend this practice!

S M B.

Great staff and thorough doctor. They were able to find an appointment on short notice as well.

clarence J.

All staff members were fantastic! Farris, Serita, Colin, Dr Desi and Dr Alvarez! Happy Holidays to everyone! Thank you for your service! 😊👍🏻❤️

Laura V.

Efficient process with happy, friendly staff!

Robert W.

All was good.

Judy T.

Everything was just wonderful. Everyone was so nice and accommodating. Dr. Sayeed was gracious and friendly. A traumatic experience was made not so bad.by these kind people. Thank you. I would definitely recommend this facility

Ron M.

Very efficient service. Beautiful facility. Everyone was very friendly but professional. Nice experience.

Ed R.

Professional, informative, and concerned. Thank you.

Angel C.

I had a positive experience at the Center for Digestive Health in Macomb, where the staff demonstrated exceptional care and compassion. Although the tests I underwent were quite stressful, the team explained each step thoroughly, making the process more manageable. The anesthesiologist was particularly reassuring before the procedure, and the doctor provided a detailed explanation of the results afterward. The welcoming nature of the team helped alleviate my concerns, and I highly recommend this center to anyone, especially those with anxiety about medical appointments.

REGINA B.

Dr. Bologna and the staff at CDH were wonderful. I felt safe in having my screening there. It is a clean, well-run office, where all of my concerns were addressed in a way I could understand. Every person on staff from check in to anesthesia to checkout were friendly and professional. Thank you 💖

J G.

Everyone was very professional and caring. Had a great experience.

Johnny D.

It was how one would want an experience to go. No issues. No confusion. Friendly people. Felt confident with how each interaction went. See you in ten years.

Katie T.

From the time I checked in to the prep room to going under and then coming out. Everyone is so kind and considerate of the patient’s situation.

Dorie

I have been there several times and always have been treated with excellence. Very caring Doctor Bakken and all the staff there. From the waiting room desk to the exit door, they were great.

Carol B.

Dr Wille and the entire group at the Center for Digestive Health has always been very kind, considerate, and understanding with any situation I have brought to them, I have been with this group for over 30 years and recommend them highly

Robert S.

Dr Quallich and the staff are friendly and helpful. I highly recommend Dr Quallich.

Debbie A.

Everyone was so nice and Dr. Jennifer was very good. She sit and listen.

Marvv F.

Dr Bologna was very nice, the staff was awesome. It makes such a difference when you are nervous about the procedure. Highly recommended the Dr and this facility.

warren Z.

Had my colonoscopy… Very professional people very much on time that’s big for me…

Debie J.

The excellent care and concern of the entire staff is very obvious. I was very impressed with how great everything went. Thank you Dr. Donat for your excellent service.

Dianne K.

Very pleasant staff!

Alicia J.

The staff was very nice and friendly 🙂

Terry C.

Excellent staff and Doctor Donat. Easy, effective and timely assistance and procedures.

Angela B.

It was a pleasant experience that could have not. Everyone was very kind and caring.

David C.

Great place. Very timely with appointment. Step by step of procedure was excellent. Dr Desai was great. Staff helpful and nice.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

Based on 6232 reviews

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Mark B.

The people at Center for Digestive Health made my procedure as pleasant as possible.

Sally B.

I cannot say enough about this office - from the front office staff to the nurses and surgical staff and Dr. Wille the experience was efficient and professional. The entire staff showed courtesy and concern for me as a patient. The process ran like a well oiled machine without the feeling of being rushed.

Kimball C.

The prep team was great. They made me feel comfortable and cared for.

Paula B.

They were fast and efficient, the office was clean, and Dr. Wille & the staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend to others.

Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, please visit our providers page.

Amir Abadir MD, FRCPC

Anezi E. Bakken MD, MS

Sante D. Bologna MD, FACP

M. Emin Donat MD, FRCPC

Partha S. Nandi

Jack Tocco DO

John R. Weber MD

Richard T. Wille MD

Tusar Desai MD

Aalia Saeed, MD

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?

If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.

What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?

An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If a physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.

How do I get test results?

We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised.

What insurances do you accept?

We accept payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 248-844-9710.

What if I need to contact the doctor?

To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 248-844-9710. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours, you will be rerouted to our after hours answering service, and your doctor will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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