Barretts Mucosa

[bev888]

My grandson who is 27 has frequently suffered from acid reflux. He often brings up bile and even admits that sometimes he actually forces (ar at least doesn't actively prevent) the vomitting because he knows he will feel better being rid of it.

He has just had an endoscopy which found the Barretts Mucosa. Obviously this is a worry, in case it becomes something worse. He is now taking Omeprazole to try and reduce the acid.

What I'd like to understand is this - has the Barretts been caused by the prescence of the acid, or by the vomitting? In other words, should he be discouraged from getting rid of it if possible, or is it best to get rid of it?

Thanks for any advice.

[Peter Pedant]

Here is the NHS advice
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Gastroesophageal-reflux-disease/Pages/Complications.aspx

no it is nt the vomiting,
it is the acid

so yes he should get rid of it by taking antacids...

[Sqad]

Barrett's oesophagitis (Mucosa) is a complication of GERDS (gastro oesophageal reflex disorder.

Only a small percentage of people with GERDS develop Barrett's and only a small percentage of Barrett's develop cancer.

\\\has the Barretts been caused by the prescence of the acid, or by the vomitting? In other words, \\

It is mainly due to the acid, "slipping" back into the oesophagus damaging the lining of the oesophagus, but the part played by the vomiting is not clearly defined.

He should continue to reduce the production and effect of the stomach acid.

Google Barrett's oesophagitis for a more indepth account.

[bev888]

Many thanks to both of you for replying. I have looked it up a lot but could never really understand whether the vomiting was a good thing (bevause it expels the acid quickly) or a bad thing (because it sends the acid across the affected area).

[Sqad]

\\\\ (bevause it expels the acid quickly) or a bad thing (because it sends the acid across the affected area). \\\

I think that the effect of vomiting to the mucosa is negligible, as the "damage" has already been done.