The tissue changes that characterize Barrett's esophagus cause no symptoms. The signs and symptoms that you experience are generally due to GERD and may include:

• Frequent heartburn
• Difficulty swallowing food
• Less commonly, chest pain

Many people with Barrett's esophagus have no signs or symptoms.

The exact cause of Barrett's esophagus isn't known. Most people with Barrett's esophagus have long-standing GERD.

In GERD, stomach contents wash back into the esophagus, damaging esophagus tissue. As the esophagus tries to heal itself, the cells can change to the type of cells found in Barrett's esophagus.

However, some people diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus have never experienced heartburn or acid reflux. It's not clear what causes Barrett's esophagus in these people.

Factors that increase your risk of Barrett's esophagus include:

• Chronic heartburn and acid reflux. Having GERD that doesn't get better when taking medications known as proton pump inhibitors or having GERD that requires regular medication can increase the risk of Barrett's esophagus.
• Age. Barrett's esophagus can occur at any age but is more common in older adults.
• Being a man. Men are far more likely to develop Barrett's esophagus.
• Being white. White people have a greater risk of the disease than do people of other races.
• Being overweight. Body fat around your abdomen further increases your risk.
• Current or past smoking.

People with Barrett's esophagus have an increased risk of esophageal cancer. The risk is small, even in people who have precancerous changes in their esophagus cells. Most people with Barrett's esophagus will never develop esophageal cancer.