Barrett’s Esophagus

What is Barrett’s esophagus?

Barrett’s esophagus is a health condition that develops when acid reflux damages the esophagus, which is the pink tube connecting the stomach to the mouth. This damage causes the lining of the esophagus to grow thicker and redden in color.

How does Barrett’s esophagus develop?

Barrett’s esophagus often develops because of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, which involves symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation of food. Barrett’s esophagus is the result of GERD symptoms leading to changes in the cells that line the lower portion of the esophagus.

Who develops Barrett’s esophagus?

Men and people with certain risk factors are more likely to develop Barrett’s esophagus. Those who have GERD or who believe they may be at risk of this condition should consult with a doctor, as Barrett’s esophagus can lead to esophageal cancer in rare cases.

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What Our Patients Are Saying

Digestive Health Institute | Gastroenterology
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Very friendly and professional. Leslie takes her time a listens to my daughter. She makes her feel comfortable enough to express how she’s feeling and if her current treatment is working or not.
Excellent experience. I was able to get an appointment within days. They were on time for every visit. I saw a PA but she was very well qualified and was able to resolve my problem. Highly recommend.
Great Staff, PAs and Physicians. They are knowledgeable, compassionate and care about their patients. I have never had to wait for more than 5 minutes for my appointments. They stay up-to-date on the latest medications, treatments and procedure, and make you comfortable with whatever you are facing. Highly recommend
Johnathan was well prepared prior to my visit. He listened to me during my visit and we came up with a good plan for my next step.
Extremely professional and patient focused visit. On time, thorough explanation of everything, and excellent follow up. The way medical process should be delivered!
They really take time with you and for that I really appreciate!
Very helpful with setting up appointment, getting me called back fast, Dr was nice & good.
My first visit but I was professionally treated and assessment by my physician was thorough and sensitive. All staff were sensitive to my privacy.
From the receptionist greeting me to prep to conversing with the Doctor, everyone was kind and caring. Dr. Dorian Jones actually took the time to answer all of my questions and concerns (with a genuine smile). On my way out, I noticed a staff member bringing water to an elderly gentleman who had been waiting for his ride. This was a great experience. I would highly recommend this office and Dr. Jones!
Cali Hart was very kind and efficient and is very knowledgeable and very helpful. I highly recommend Digestive Health Institute!!
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Our Doctors

We’re proud of our team here at Digestive Health Institute. Our health care providers include some of the very best colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and physician assistants. To learn more about our qualified team of specialists, click their image or visit our providers page.

Dorian Jones, MD

Lucas Julien, MD

Razvan Opreanu, MD

Scott Plaehn, DO, FACOI

Albert Ross, MD

John Walling, Jr., DO, FACOI

Siaka Yusuf, MD

Our Locations

FAQs

What happens during my first visit?
If you are a new patient, you can expect to have a complete physical exam. You will also be asked detailed questions about your current problems and your past medical history, your current medications, allergies, your family history and other pertinent medical information. If you are taking medications, please bring a completed medical history form with you to your appointment. Once the physician has reviewed your medical information and completed the physical examination, a plan of care will be developed. You may need to be seen again in the office, be referred back to your family physician for follow-up care, or require additional testing. If additional tests are needed, we will assist you in scheduling these tests.
What if I need to schedule an endoscopic procedure?
An endoscopic procedure allows the physician to visualize a part of your gastrointestinal tract with a special instrument called an endoscope. If your family physician has ordered testing, you will be contacted by telephone by one of our staff members. If an Digestive Health Institute physician orders testing and you are in the office, the procedure can generally be scheduled during the course of your visit. You will be given a date, time, and location for the test, as well as written instructions telling you how to prepare for the test. If you have any questions about the procedure, please feel free to ask one of our staff members or the physician.
How do I get test results?
We ask that you wait 10 to 14 days before contacting us for results. Often results come from several different sources. This information needs to be compiled and reviewed by your physician before you can be appropriately advised. You may call 517-332-1200 and press “8″ and your call will be directed to the triage nurse.
What insurances do you accept?
Digestive Health Institute accepts payment from most insurance companies including Medicare, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Blue Care Network, Physicians Health Plan, Cofinity, Sparrow Professional Health Network, Medicaid, McLaren, Health Plus, and several others. Accepted insurances are subject to change at any time without notice.

If your insurance requires an authorization from your primary care physician, you may be asked to assist us in obtaining this authorization.

All patients are responsible for all copays and deductibles at the time of service.

If you have any questions regarding your benefits or insurance coverage, please contact our Billing Department at 517-332-1200 #6.

What if I need to contact the doctor?
To contact your doctor during business hours please call our main number 517-332-1200. If you have an urgent need to speak with the doctor after hours please call our answering service at 517-483-9124 and the doctor on call will be paged. In the case of a medical emergency please proceed directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

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