What is the first treatment for Barrett's oesophagus?

Barrett's oesophagus is a change in the lining of the lower oesophagus, often associated with long-term reflux. Acid-reducing treatment can ease reflux and protect the lining, but it does not remove the changed cells. An [Upper Endoscopy](/treatments/diagnostics-and-staging/upper-endoscopy/) allows the clinician to inspect the oesophagus and take biopsies. The biopsy result, including whether precancerous cell changes are present, determines whether monitoring is appropriate or whether an endoscopic treatment should be discussed.

Take prescribed acid-reducing medicine as directed and discuss persistent reflux, swallowing difficulty, or nighttime symptoms with your clinician. Keep the endoscopy and biopsy follow-up appointment so the findings are explained clearly. Practical measures such as avoiding meals close to bedtime, raising the head of the bed when advised, and identifying foods that worsen symptoms may help. Follow-up timing is individual; [Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment](/treatments/survivorship-and-rehabilitation/post-treatment-surveillance/) is a related model of planned monitoring, but your gastroenterology team sets the schedule.

Seek urgent medical help for vomiting blood, black stools, severe chest pain, or sudden difficulty swallowing. Arrange prompt assessment for food sticking, progressive swallowing problems, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or new bleeding. Reflux symptoms alone do not establish Barrett's oesophagus or cancer; testing is needed to identify the cause and guide care.

What did the endoscopy and biopsies show? Are there precancerous changes? How should I take acid-reducing treatment? When is my next assessment, and which symptoms should bring it forward?