The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Barrett's esophagus is a medical condition where the cells that line the esophagus change from the normal esophageal cells to cells that resemble intestinal cells. This change in cell structure may be the body's way to protect against stomach acid associated with reflux, as evidenced by the cellular change seen in the lower section of the esophagus near the stomach. According to MedlinePlus, this condition is more common for men, especially those who suffer from chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Having Barrett's esophagus increases your chances of developing esophageal cancer.
Asymptomatic
Barrett's esophagus often does not display any signs or symptoms of the changes in the esophageal lining, according to MedlinePlus. The symptoms related to Barrett's esophagus include the same symptoms associated with GERD. Chronic sufferers of GERD require further testing, such as a tissue sample collected during an endoscopic procedure to look at the esophagus and stomach. This testing will help diagnose Barrett's esophagus in the absence of symptoms.
Heartburn
An individual with Barrett's esophagus may suffer from heartburn. The acid reflux from the stomach leaves an individual with feelings of a burning pain in the chest or throat, as well as pressure behind the breastbone. Feelings of food stuck in the esophagus while swallowing may also occur. An individual may experience a bad taste in his mouth. Heartburn increases after eating, especially when lying down or bending. Many people suffer more at night because lying down increases the symptoms.
Vomiting Blood
When the acid in the stomach refluxes into the esophagus, as often occurs with Barrett's esophagus, the lining may erode. When the lining of the esophagus erodes, bleeding may occur. According to the Mayo Clinic, after bleeding occurs in the esophagus or stomach, an individual may vomit the blood. The vomit can contain bright red blood from fresh bleeding. Old blood that drains and sits in the stomach before vomiting resembles coffee grounds.
Tarry Stools
If bleeding occurs from acid in the esophagus, the blood may collect in the stomach and pass through the intestines. Blood that passes through the intestines appears black and is sticky. Blood in stool has a tar-like appearance, according to the Mayo Clinic.
