Barrett's esophagus is a disorder that affects the lining of your esophagus. The lining becomes damaged by stomach acid, which is typically caused by conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Barrett's esophagus doesn't usually present any symptoms, but you may experience symptoms related to the acid in your stomach that causes Barrett's esophagus.
Stomach Acid
Since excess stomach acid causes Barrett's esophagus, it's important to prevent stomach acid from rising. Certain foods and beverages can make stomach acid worse. When you eat or drink certain foods, stomach acid begins to rise and stomach acid begins to flow backward and up into your esophagus. When the acid flows into your esophagus, it can cause damage to the lining.
Types of Foods and Drinks
Foods that may cause excess stomach acid include orange juice, tomato juice and tomato-based foods like pizza sauce or spaghetti sauce. Avoid acidic foods and drinks such as orange juice if you have Barrett's esophagus. Not only can the orange juice cause additional stomach acids, which can backflow into your esophagus and cause further damage, but the acid from the orange juice may also burn your esophagus. Caffeinated drinks, such as tea or soda, can also cause excess stomach acid, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fatty foods and full-fat dairy products can also worsen GERD.
Symptoms
If you suffer from excess stomach acid, or GERD, you can experience symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, an acid taste in your mouth, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, frequent burping, chronic coughing and chest pain. Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and eating heavy meals can bring on symptoms or make existing symptoms worse. Symptoms may also worsen when lying down after a meal. Obesity or being overweight can also cause frequent symptoms and make symptoms worse.
Medications
Certain medications can help prevent or reduce stomach acid and help keep it from flowing into your esophagus. Your health care provider may prescribe antacids or recommend over-the-counter antacid medication. Some medications are most effective when only taken for two weeks and then require a three-month break or waiting period before taking the medication again. If you experience symptoms such as heartburn or can taste acid in your mouth three or more times per week on a regular basis, consult with your health care provider.
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