Barrett’s Oesophagus

What Causes Barrett’s Oesophagus?

Barrett’s typically develops in people with a history of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), where acid and bile repeatedly flow back into the oesophagus. Over time, this constant irritation may lead to the development of abnormal cells.

Risk factors include:

• Chronic acid reflux or GORD
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Family history of Barrett’s or oesophageal cancer
• Male gender and age over 50

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Symptoms

Barrett’s Oesophagus itself doesn’t usually cause symptoms. However, it is often found during investigations for long-term reflux. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent heartburn or indigestion
• Regurgitation of acid or food
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Unexplained chest discomfort
• Hoarseness or chronic cough

Many people with Barrett’s are unaware of the condition until it is detected during an upper GI endoscopy.

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Why Endoscopy Is Important

Barrett’s Oesophagus is typically diagnosed and monitored using gastroscopy (upper endoscopy). This allows direct visualisation of the oesophageal lining and enables biopsies to be taken for analysis.

Endoscopy helps:

• Confirm the presence of abnormal cells
• Detect any signs of dysplasia (pre-cancerous changes)
• Monitor for progression over time
• Guide treatment planning

Please note: All endoscopy procedures require a referral from a Consultant or Private GP. Patients can access a referral by booking an appointment with one of our Consultant Endoscopists or Private GPs.

Learn More About Our Endoscopy Services

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Surveillance and Follow-Up

Patients diagnosed with Barrett’s Oesophagus are usually placed on a regular surveillance programme, depending on the degree of cell changes identified:

• No dysplasia: Endoscopy every 3–5 years
• Low-grade dysplasia: More frequent monitoring or treatment
• High-grade dysplasia: May require endoscopic therapy

Ongoing monitoring is essential to reduce the risk of progression to oesophageal cancer.

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Treatment and Management

Barrett’s is managed through a combination of:

• Acid suppression therapy (e.g. PPIs)
• Lifestyle changes – weight loss, smoking cessation, dietary adjustments
• Endoscopic therapy – in selected cases, such as radiofrequency ablation or EMR (not all treatments may be available at our facility)
• Referral to upper GI specialists if further intervention is needed

Our team ensures each patient is fully supported with access to diagnostics, consultant care, and ongoing follow-up.