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

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John K.

Dr.Nandi and his team were fantastic. Thank You for taking great care of me!

Angela M.

The office was such a welcoming environment from the beginning. They quickly and efficiently move you through the process while making you feel as comfortable as possible.

Mary J.

Everyone is so nice and caring. I feel very safe with Dr. Weber.

Dave B.

why send review ir Cordwell health , they change what you write Dr Nandy is a great concerning dr.

Lisa P.

Staff was so friendly and explained everything very thoroughly which made me feel comfortable.

Yvonne P.

If you’re looking for hands on care and respectful treatment, this is the place to go. my doctor, Dr. Bakken and staff get 10 stars out of 10

dia F.

Great clinic.

sarab J.

Everyone from Dr. Willie to the nurses and staff are the best.

Archbishop N.

This has to be by far the best GI practice in Macomb, Oakland or Wayne counties. They all care, they all know their stuff and they take the necessary time to talk to you.... Dr T rocks....

Lucille S.

The staff was amazing right from the check in to Discharge! Dr Weber is a kind man and explains everything to you. He also listened to what my concerns were with no judgement.

Vicki R.

Went in for 2 procedures. Everyone was very kind and did whatever they could to make me comfortable. The folks here are very professional. They thoroughly answered my questions and even called me later in the day to ensure I was well and not in pain.

Larry B.

The best experience I've had for a procedure like this. I've never had a bad experience anywhere, but for some reason, the Macomb facility was just top notch. From walking in the door to leaving was filled with friendly, thoughtful people, who made me feel I was the getting the very best care!

Amy Y.

Everyone on the staff is nice and welcoming. Great facility and staff.

Jimandericka R.

Comfortable, straightforward good treatment I enjoyed speaking to everyone, especially my Dr Dr. Bologna

Shirley S.

I was so pleased with my experience. Everyone was so kind and made me feel very comfortable. Having a colonoscopy is not what you want to do but they check you in quickly and move the process along. No waiting and before you know it it’s over.

Matthew K.

Dr. Wille is a good listener and cares about his patients. He is a down to Earth person and a good communicator.

Madonna H.

Entire staff was friendly and efficient. The procedure was well explained and went on without long waiting in between. I also received a follow-up call later in the day.

Yvonne G.

Dr. Bakker let me read off a list of items of concern and she responded to each item on the list.

Karen M.

Dr. Weber, his assistant Debbie, and their colleagues at Center for Digestive Health are terrific. They are knowledgeable, patient, friendly and helpful, and will work with you to find a solution to your problem. I highly recommend the Center for Digestive Health.

R G.

Positive experience for a dreaded prep (Colonoscopy)! Staff, location, and Dr. Tusar all great! Thank you:)

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.

kirk W.

From the time I walked in to the time I walked out, I was impressed with the kindness and efficiency.

Jon L.

Dr. Donat and staff were wonderful.

Linda L.

A Colonoscopy is not likely at the top of anyone's favorite things to do list. That being said...I found everyone from the intake personnel, to nurses, to the anesthesiologist, to Dr. Bakken kind, professional and efficient. Couldn't have been treated better.

Sheryl Van G.

Very organized, efficient, caring and friendly. Made the experience fairly easy to get through.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

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Veronica H.

Dr Bakken and her staff are absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in the door, I knew I was in good hands

Gerry F.

I had my procedure done here and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. From check in to discharge, the entire staff was friendly and professional. The facility was super clean and organized, and the whole process went smoothly and on time. Dr Bologna came in and talked to me after my procedure and went over the results. I highly recommend this place to anyone.

Donna R.

The Center communicated with me several weeks prior to the testing date to provide information for the testing procedure of a colonoscopy. Communication continued in a timely manner right up to the date of the procedure and post procedure in case I had any concerns. This is my second time of using this facility, which was a good choice. Thank you for your care.

Yukari W.

easy to follow instructions for prep. Very comfortable office and preoperative care. Excellent bedside manner of Dr. Nandi. Highly recommend.

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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