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.

Find a Location in Your Area

Find a Location

Request an Appointment

What They Are Saying



Excellent

Center For Digestive Health, Rochester Hills4.8

Based on 6250 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Dino R.

The whole experience was a very pleasant and relaxing experience!

Tamara T.

Overall experience with this physician and group was exceptional. Timeliness of appointment and scheduling was flexible and an unexpected work conflict requiring a reschedule was easily accommodated. Checking in and intake were low key and the two women I worked with helped me relax. I was treated respectfully and kindly by all care extenders and the physician. Follow up call in the afternoon was appreciated. “Senior pix” are not fun - having a great group to work with made it far easier.

Patricia H.

Everyone is kind, professional and competent. Very little wait time and good communication prior and after procedure. Dr Willie is wonderful!

Bobbi F.

Great experience from start to finish. Super staff!

Caitlin K.

The whole visit was great. The team was efficient and kind. They explained what they were doing throughout and did a great job!

Findley D.

Professional, Courteous staff On time Well organized

W374 O.

Read all reviews prior to my appointment for a colonoscopy! I agree with all the 5 star ratings! Dr. Bologna who did my procedure was great! Sense of humor which was appreciated. He came in my room afterwards sat down and talked to me. Everything was great. The staff- Amazing, friendly, and caring. The nurse anesthesiologist didn’t mess around! She knew her stuff and told me what she was doing as she did it! Great team work💜 The worst part was fasting, and drinking Miralax with Gatorade, and that wasn’t that bad! For those who are reluctant to get one, don’t be! I am 55 and this was my first. I was the same way, so glad I didn’t cancel my appointment like I did the 3 times prior!

Diane T.

Fast and friendly on day of procedure.

Cindy P.

By far the best place to go. They have the friendliest staff in all departments.

Madeline H.

I have been a patient of Dr Weber for many years. Although the prep for the procedure isn’t very pleasant, once you enter the surgical center for the rest of the process is actually quite nice. The staff is warm, thought, and courteous. The facilities are pristine and the procedure itself is over before you know it. Dr Weber is knowledgeable, approachable, and personable.

David S.

Everyone is efficient, professional and kind. They do a great job.

George T.

First of all, the staff was awesome. Secondly, Dr. Donat was very easy to talk to and explained everything. I strongly recommend The Troy Gastro for your colonoscopy exam.

YAIRA S.

Dr. Jack Tocco is truly exceptional! From the moment I walked into his office, I felt heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. He took the time to listen to my complex medical history, asked thoughtful questions, and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. He never made me feel rushed or dismissed — instead, I felt like I had a true partner in my care. His knowledge, professionalism, and kindness stood out immediately. I left the appointment feeling more confident and hopeful than I’ve felt in a long time. If you’re looking for a GI doctor who actually takes the time to understand YOU as a person and not just a list of symptoms, Dr. Tocco is the one. Highly, highly recommend!

Jerry K.

Very pleased 5 star

David St G.

Fast and efficient patient service and professional staff

Robert D.

Everything was perfect.......... Care is definitely there number one priority....

K S.

Procedure was quick and painless. Everyone was nice and professional.

Donna S.

Everyone was prompt, friendly and very helpful and professional.

Carol R.

The staff was really nice and considerate.

Marjorie Z.

First off all, Dr. Wille is the best gastroenterologist I have ever had! He not only excels in his field and is very respectful, informative and professional, he is also very laid back, and relaxed with a caring and attentive personality. He really listens to every word you are saying and responds. Further, while I was there I interfaced with about 12-15 members of the staff. Amazingly, every single person was extremely, patient and kind. Everyone from the folks in the office who register you, to the staff that takes your medical info to preparing you for the Colonoscopy/endoscopy lab, and the medical staff in the lab completely explained what they were doing and why. I honestly would have to say it is the most caring atmosphere I have ever experienced. The entire staff was 100% invested in your comfort, care and security. I will always look forward to returning to that office if necessary with confidence and without reservation of any kind!

Rob M.

Fast, friendly group of professionals looking out for our Interests. Get er done!

William E.

The surgical facility is very convenient, staff is great and Dr Quallich is very personable and attentive.

Nancy U.

Every employee was positive and kind. Dr. Weber is forever young...really. Hello!!! To Roland. Keeping you in my prayers.

Mary C.

Great experience! The staff from checking in, medical staff and follow up were very professional and personable! Thank you

Randy K.

I want to thank everyone who I had interacted with me before, during, & after my procedure.

The Center for Digestive Health4.8

Based on 6255 reviews

See all reviews

review us on

Dee M.

Very professional and easy to talk to. Thank you for making my visit an easy experience.

Bill S.

Service was very efficient. Care was excellent.

FrannyJ J.

First I would like to say, staff was very friendly !! Dr. Donat was extremely nice and receptive. He listened and asked the right questions to describe my issues. I have had my problem for sometime now and I was VERY afraid of the procedure to diagnose my issues. DR. Donat made me feel comfortable and eased my fear. Not to mention my wait time was minimal.

Jenny W.

Great experience here, all the staff was super friendly and professional. From check in until they walked me to my car... Nothing but good things to say. I really appreciated the 80's rock while I waited!

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.

3 reasons to see a gastrointestinal specialist when you turn 45

A gastrointestinal specialist is someone who specializes in the gastrointestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract involves a pathway that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. The organs within the gastrointestinal tract are those that function mostly for...

The Benefits of Water for Digestion

Digestion is a process that, when running smoothly, can help keep the rest of your body in good condition too. It’s an important component of your overall health. There are several different ways that the digestive system can be well maintained, and this can be helped...

Do I Need an Endoscopy for Acid Reflux?

An endoscopy is a procedure that is typically used to examine an individual’s digestive tract. It is a non-surgical procedure that involves a tube with a video camera attached to it, called an endoscope, that is used to examine the inside of a cavity in the body. An...