Can barrett's esophagus be prevented if you have gerd?

Barretts Esophagitis: By controlling the GERD by using proton pump inhibitor (PPI's) or if very severe by surgery we hope to prevent the acid from hitting the esophagus. This should prevent the occurrence of Barrett's in most cases. If you have Barrett's you need to have it followed by serial EGD's.

Yes: with proper lifestyle modifications and medications it is preventable. -Avoid caffine, NSAIDS, stress, smoking, alcohol. -Dont go to bed right after you eat -Taking acid reducers atleast 30 mins before the meal (usually heavy meals of the day)

Barrett's.: This is a change in the esophagus in response to longstanding reflux. It is a precancerous change which requires frequent surveillance EGDs to make sure cancer is not developing. If Barrett's is found, the abnormal areas can be ablated so that they do not progress to cancer. Remember, reflux comes from an anatomic issue, so medications don't stop reflux and thereby may not prevent Barrett's.