Suitability of digestive enzymes for people with GERD or Barrett's Oesophagus

To: Dr Ratnakar Kini, MD
Hello Dr Ratnakar
I am wondering whether it is OK to take digestive enzymes (pancreatic but also hydrochloric acid) - my friend has been diagnosed with Barrett's Oesophagus and an endoscopy revealed inflammation along the entire digestive tract. As a result my friend suffers frequent bloating, dyspepsia and nausea.
Thank you.

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi,
GERD is due to reflux of stomach contents in to the esophagus. barrett's esophagus is due to long term exposure of the esophageal lining to this reflux content.
Pancreatic enzymes and digestive enzymes do not correct these underlying causes.
So these enzymes may not be helpful in GERD and Barrett's esophagus.