Barrett's Esophagus

[Billy Caddell]

I have had stomach/digestive problems sine 1956. About two years ago it was diagnosed as Barrett's Esophagus. I have been going to a local gastroenterologist in my rural area of Texas. The last three times the endoscopic biopsies were "inconclusive" according to the gastroenterologist.
I have altered my diet trying to eliminate "problem" foods. However, sometimes everything I consume bothers me. I used a wedge to sleep on for about two years until I started having leg and hip problems. Several months ago I purchased an electric adjustable bed, which has helped in reducing the reflux. However, I still have erratic pain and reflux problems. I am currently on 20mg Prilosec twice a day and still I have some reflux problem.
I understand the nature, treatment and complications related to my condition. My wife and I are very concerned.
I am asking for the name of a HIGHLY qualified gastroenterologist in the Dallas, Texas area. I have little confidence in the treatment or concern by my current doctor. I live about 1 1/2 hours out of Dallas but am more than willing to travel to find the right doctor.
Bill Caddell, ***@****

[Lee]

My mother has recently been diagnosed with Barett's.  Am seeking a good gastroenterologist in South Carolina who has had success in treating Barrett's.   Any information would be appreciated.

[FGK]

Photodynamic Therapy for Barrett's esophagus is discussed by the Jefferson Cancer Network in the Spring 1999 newsletter.  (Jefferson Medical Center, Philadelphia)  It is on page 4 of the newsletter.
http://www.kcc.tju.edu/Clinical/JCN/news/jcnnewsCurrent.htm
As to my Barrett's, my gastroenterologist says as long as I take my Prilosec, I can eat and drink whatever I want -- in moderation, of course.  I never had any symptoms of acid reflux, to the diagnosis was unexpected.  The one drawback to Photodynamic therapy is that for 30 days afterward, one must stay out of sunlight and bright lights.  Also, my gastroenterologist says while this procedure may eliminate surface Barrett's, it could remain deeper in the esophagus.  Anyone have any other information contrary to all this?

  

[anon]

Have any of you consider or checked out the side effects to some
of these meds?  And if so, are any of you having liver problems due to the meds you are taking?

[Terrie]

I was diagnosed with barrett's in Feb. 2000. Is there anything I can do about the chest pain. It's affecting the quality of my life in a drastic way. I take 30 mg of Prevacid once a day. Due for a follow up endoscopy next year.

[virgo0823]

To Keith:

I was suppose to be a protocal patient for Acephix but missed the study.  However, I was put on the drug afterwards and it is wonderful.  No side affects like I had with Prilosec (lower bowel problems and headache).  I've been on it a couple months and had heartburn maybe once since then.

[rick D]

Gee after reading thru this forum, I have all the systems of Barretts, back pain, severe chest pain and burning senstaions, sore neck, radiating pain down the arms at times and even the weird feeling in the bottom of my teeth.  I have been on Prilosec for approx 10 years for GERD.  I am finally scheduled for an endoscopy this coming Monday. Thats the first thing the doc mentioned, if I had ever been checked for Barretts.  Had an endoscopy 2 years ago, but wasn't checked for that as this was just a general practioneer who diagnosed me with GERD and a slite irratation around the duodenum.
Seems I am a bit worried about the results of the up coming endoscopy. Tylenol 3 doesnt even help the pain and seems to cause a bit more pain in the stomach.  Should have seen a specialist years ago, but all the docs just said Prilosec would help the GERD. It used to help lots but over the last year it just seems to have not been working as well. I take 40ml in the evening, I am 46 and in good health otherwise. Have had all the Cardiac Stress test preformed recently to rule out any heart probs. Tried Prevecid but I think the Prilosec works better for me.