Hi everyone I'm Rob and was diagnosed with Barretts Oesophagus in August 2014,
I was not sure what that was until recently until I actually saw the scopes in detail barretts is where the lining of the oesophagus should be a white complexion but is actually a redish complexion.
But the question that I want to know is, Is Barretts Oesophagus a form of Cancer (the big C)?
Hi Rob,
No not at the stage you're at,I have had it 3 yrs now,had three endoscopies and biopsies taken,and so far,so good.
Apparently 1 in 80 persons go on from this stage to the cancerous stage,so the odds on getting it for you,and me,at this stage are very low.
Obviously the scopes will reveal all,in the meantime,don't worry,eat sensibly,drink sensibly,and live sensibly.
I now eat more or less normally,just a little less than before,I take PPI's when I feel the need,not when I feel OK,sure I get a little discomfort at night,and sometimes during the day,but compared to how I was this time last year I am much better.
My next goal is to get my fitness back,as I have undergone dual knee replacements over the last two years,and I feel sure being fit and active will improve my Barretts symptoms.
As I say,don't worry too much,I have lost my mum and dad with Esophagus cancer so I may have a high risk of it developing,but at age 64 lots could happen to me,but I will not let it ruin my life,or rule my life.
Be positive,put up with the bad days and celebrate the good ones,you'll have some of both,I still enjoy a curry,I still enjoy a pint or two,and I like my pipe,but in moderation.
Hope this helps,the Internet will give you plenty of advice on all things natural to help with the condition,use them,they will help,e.g. DGL,Slippery Elm,Honey and many others,again don't worry,you'll be fine.
Best Regards Malc
Hi Rob
In answer to your question whether it is a form of cancer - no it isn't. It means that the cells have changed due to the acid. Because of this change we are at a slightly increased risk of it progressing to cancer but this is very unlikely. On the Barretts Support forum they do say that it is roughly 1 in 200 who may progress on to cancer. However, you will be monitored every 2 years to make sure that any changes will be acted upon so please do not worry. The cells are graded and should it ever reach a High Grade (unlikely that it will) then you will be offered the Halo Ablation system which is a machine that lasers the Barretts cells away and you are then back to normal. There are a number of hospitals in the UK doing this now so hopefully there will be one near to you.
In the meantime try to take your medication, as instructed by your doctor, to control your acid to avoid anything getting worse. Avoid foods that you know will give you heartburn or have them vary rarely.
Hope this puts your mind at ease and good luck. Any questions just ask away
Barnie
Cheers for your reply bernie!