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Newly diagnosed BARRETTS esophagus
I am sooo happy to find this forum. I am really sad about my diagnosis two weeks ago. My understanding is that while erosive esophagitis can be reversed — Barrett’s cannot. I am extra fearful because I witnessed my younger brother die of stomach cancer in his mid 30s (non drinker, non smoker, healthy and fit while eating organic and having a six pack abs etc — when he complained of stomach pain docs did not scope because of his age and he was treated with protonix for what they aaaimed was an ulcer. A few months later after liver pain he was diagnosed with stomach cancer and he died 3 1/2 months later).
Sooo … I’ll always have post traumatic stress from my reflux lead me to get scoped (although the docs don’t think this is related to my family history). I was recommended to have another endoscopy in 3-6 months for more extensive biopsies . So far it’s non dysplasia Barrett’s.
I’m scared but have gone full speed revision of my diet , habits, sleep at incline …
I lost my job two weeks ago (but start a new one soon luckily). I’ve been spending the last two weeks scouring the net and YouTube videos and have found a TON of great info. But I love seeing other people that have experience living with Barrett’s.
I am scared
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I just was talking with a friend tonight, and she has Barret's. She is doing well. I had never heard of this? She also said it cannot be cured, but she is being managed well by her care team. She is 76.
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2 ReactionsI believe that people have either reversed Barrett's or caused there to be no sign of it. Look up on this forum and the internet all the methods to help, and maybe you also need to be on medication for a certain period of time (try to see if H2 blocker is enough without PPI, or just use the PPI short term until it heals and then wean off it).
Regarding the possible familial connection to stomach cancer, I suggest you get genetic advice to see what's relevant and what you can do to prevent issues. Usually with Barrett's the danger is esophageal cancer.
Also, use Gaviscon advance (the one with alginate) that blocks acid from rising from the stomach to the esophagus, especially before bed (or during the night, if you have symptoms).
Try to be in tune with your body so you can see when you have symptoms.
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7 ReactionsHello. I also was diagnosed with Barrett’s 5 years ago; luckily still in the dysplasia stage. I am on Protonix to help control reflux but unfortunately this is worsening and I am now concerned. My GI dr has not recommended anything else-yet.
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3 ReactionsI found out last year I had Barrett’s esophagus and two weeks ago it was
high grade dysplasia And will have another endoscopy n three weeks. Not sure what they are doing. The chance of getting cancer is extremely low even with this diagnosis so don’t worry just keep a check on it with ur doc and change ur diet. Don’t drink and smoke of course.
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2 ReactionsYou will definately be in my prayers. I’m happy that I found a place where we can all support eachother 🙏🏽🤗💪🏽🙏🏽
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2 ReactionsI was diagnosed in 2018 with BE no dysplasia. I went on a strict diet and cut out all carbonated and citrus drinks. No vinegar or tomato products. My last two scopes showed NO signs of Barrett’s!!! The diet does work and I’m on a PPI. Dr. Told me come back in 5 years. Don’t eat 3 hours before bedtime. Drink only water or unsweetened almond milk which is alkaline. I bought the book the acid watcher diet off Amazon which explains this BE. Good luck!
I am soo happy for you! This is very inspiring 🤗🤗🤗thanks for sharing
This blog from an ENT might give you a starting off point for asking more questions and perhaps getting a second opinion about your DX and a plan of action: https://jamiekoufman.com/barretts-esophagus/ I don't have BE so can't provide personal experience. I can say that doing the low acid whole food diet helped me, as has alkaline water and chewing gum, for my GERD and LPR. My neighbor has had BE for about 20 years and he says he is fine. He doesn't do the special diet, he does chew an alginate gum at night and uses a PPI. I also use Gaviscon Advance before exercising or when I go off my diet. I stopped the PPIs when I developed side effects. Do your research, pick a treatment plan, and take a deep breath. hopefully this DX will be a blip on you radar screen in years to come. Good luck!
Very good information, baguette. I really appreciate it 🙏🏽