Barrett’s Esophagus Treatment in Pasadena, CA
Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the normal lining of the esophagus is replaced with tissue similar to that found in the intestine. This change often occurs as a result of chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
While Barrett’s esophagus itself does not always cause symptoms, it increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. Because of this, regular monitoring and personalized treatment are essential for protecting long-term digestive health.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Barrett’s esophagus treatment is led by Kimberley Shine, MD. With a focus on integrative and functional medicine, Dr. Shine combines advanced medical care with gut health support and lifestyle strategies to help patients reduce complications and improve overall wellness.
Causes and Risk Factors
Barrett’s esophagus typically develops as a complication of chronic acid reflux. Contributing factors include:
- GERD: Frequent heartburn and acid reflux damage the esophagus over time.
- Age: Most common in adults over 50.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus.
- Obesity: Excess weight, especially abdominal fat, increases reflux risk.
- Smoking: Tobacco use can worsen reflux and damage the esophagus.
- Genetics: Family history may increase susceptibility.
Understanding these risk factors allows for effective prevention and personalized treatment planning.
Symptoms of Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus often does not cause noticeable symptoms on its own. Most patients experience symptoms related to acid reflux, such as:
- Frequent heartburn or acid regurgitation
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Chronic cough or hoarseness
- Nausea or vomiting in severe cases
Because symptoms overlap with GERD, medical evaluation is essential for detecting Barrett’s esophagus early.
How Barrett’s Esophagus Is Diagnosed
At Shine Health and Wellness, diagnosis may include:
- Medical History and Exam: Reviewing reflux symptoms, lifestyle, and risk factors.
- Endoscopy: Using a thin tube with a camera to view the esophagus lining.
- Biopsy: Collecting tissue samples during endoscopy to confirm diagnosis.
- Functional Medicine Testing: Assessing digestive health, food sensitivities, and gut microbiome imbalances.
This comprehensive evaluation ensures an accurate diagnosis and an individualized care plan.
Treatment Options for Barrett’s Esophagus
While Barrett’s esophagus cannot always be reversed, treatment can reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and lower cancer risk. Options at Shine Health and Wellness include:
- Medication Management: Prescribing proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or other acid-reducing medications.
- Lifestyle and Nutritional Counseling: Creating dietary strategies to minimize reflux triggers.
- Weight Management: Supporting healthy weight loss to reduce abdominal pressure.
- Gut Health Support: Probiotics, supplements, and functional approaches to strengthen digestion.
- Surveillance Endoscopy: Regular monitoring to detect precancerous changes early.
- Collaborative Care: Referrals for advanced procedures such as endoscopic ablation or surgery when necessary.
By addressing both symptoms and underlying contributors, Shine Health and Wellness helps patients achieve long-term digestive stability.
The Role of Gut Health in Barrett’s Esophagus
Gut health plays an important role in reflux and esophageal damage. Poor digestion, food intolerances, and microbiome imbalances can worsen symptoms and increase inflammation.
At Shine Health and Wellness, treatment includes strategies to improve gut health, such as targeted nutrition, probiotics, and functional medicine testing. Supporting the digestive system helps patients manage reflux more effectively and protect the esophagus.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, combines more than a decade of medical experience with a patient-centered approach. She values strong doctor-patient relationships and takes time to listen, educate, and create care plans tailored to each individual’s needs. Her integrative and functional medicine background ensures that treatment not only manages Barrett’s esophagus but also supports overall digestive and systemic health.
Protect Your Esophageal Health
Barrett’s esophagus requires careful monitoring and management, but with the right care, patients can reduce symptoms and lower their long-term risks.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team provide personalized treatment plans to protect digestive health and support overall wellness. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.