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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Excellent

Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills4.8

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Jerry K.

For an uncomfortable procedure they made it very comfortable.

Janet G.

The staff here make you feel comfortable in an otherwise uncomfortable situation.

Andrzej S.

Another good visit. Dr Bologna is very knowledgeable and caring.

Christel W.

Dr. Donat is amazing doctor as well the staff. I will travel just keep him as my doctor

Jennifer H.

The staff we wonderful and Dr. Willi was very receptive to my issues.

Peggy B.

Excellent

frank W.

Always a very professional staff and doctors. Made to feel very comfortable and the whole procedure took 1 hour from sign in to check out.

Ken J.

Greta people, professional, really make you feel comfortable.

B. L.

Dr Bologna and staff were helpful and friendly. Though the initial appointment call wasnt great: he scheduled me in the afternoon erroneously, and his directions on my diabetes meds conflicted with the followup paperwork -- how much to cut back on or what to cut out completely. But the other staff clarified and corrected all that after a bit of phone tag.

David O.

Minimal wait time both in lobby and exam room. Dr. Wille and staff are great!

Christine C.

I have been going here at Digestive Health Center for more than 20 years. It is a great place to talk about things that are sometimes hard to talk about. Dr donat is a great doctor. I have been seeing him for over 20 years and he's very understanding and nice.

Laura C.

My first colonoscopy screen and it went very smoothly. Everyone was great, from the moment we walked in the doors until we left the building. Dr. Nandi took his time to ensure all my questions were answered and explained next steps thoroughly. Highly recommend!

Patrick C.

Very thorough and professional staff. Dr. met before and after procedure to inform me what was happening.

Jan F.

Everyone friendly - even a a little music as I was wheeled in for my scope. Before I knew it, in recovery a little juice and , checking my vitals and home sweet home.

John A.

On time and pleasant staff

Joseph J.

Prep instructions were precise and easy to follow. Procedure was smooth and painless.

Thom F.

Everyone was so nice and helpful. The whole process was simple and smooth. CDH is highly recommended.

Joanna K.

Prompt, knowledgeable, excellent care and excellent experience.

Douglas M.

I received fast and efficient service. I was only disappointed with having to be poked 3 times as I have a fear of needles.

Phil P.

On and out Staff was great and friendly

Kay R.

Always a good experience. Doctors and nurses are kind, friendly ,answer questions you have and take the time with you. You never feel rushed. They always have your best interest at heart

Suzannemcc P.

I see Neolle M who is a remarkable health care practitioner and has made a difference in my life. Thee entire staff is very helpful.

Richard P.

The doctors and staff are great. CDH has been integral to my managing of digestive health issues.

Chaquita C.

Overall great experience. Staff was friendly and took all precautions to make sure you were safe. Thank you and God Bless!

Sandra M.

The staff is very friendly and very efficient! I was in and out in no time.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

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mazin K.

They made me feel very comfortable from beginning to end of my procedure. Everyone there was great. The front desk woman was very personable. The man that took me to my private room was very nice and explained exactly what I needed to do. The nurses that prepared me were great. The nurse anesthetist made me feel comfortable and safe The whole time. Dr. Bologna explained everything before we started and made me feel very comfortable. Thanks to everyone there I had a great experience.

Michelle M.

I was nervous about having a colonoscopy. Dr. Bakken and the surgical facility put me at ease. All staff members from scheduling to waking up post-op were kind and caring.

Kiley M.

The staff and Dr Bakken were so friendly and very through explaining all parts if the procedure.

Gordon R.

on time, quick wakeup in recovery.

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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