Reflux, esophageal
A condition wherein stomach contents regurgitate or back up (reflux) into the esophagus (a long cylindrical tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach). The food in the stomach is partially digested by stomach acid and enzymes. Normally, the partially digested acid content in the stomach is delivered by the stomach muscle into the small intestine for further digestion. In esophageal reflux, stomach acid content refluxes backwards up into the esophagus, occasionally reaching the breathing passages, causing inflammation and damage to the esophagus, as well as to the lung and larynx (the voice box). The overall process is medically termed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 10% of patients with GERD develop a Barrett’s esophagus which can increase the risk of cancer of the esophagus.
Read Also:
- Refract
In ophthalmology, to determine the bending of light that takes place within the human eye. Refractive errors include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Lenses can be used to control the amount of refraction, correcting those errors.
- Refraction
In opthalmology, the bending of light that takes place within the human eye. Refractive errors include nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. Lenses can be used to control the amount of refraction and correct those errors.
- Refraction test
Also termed vision test, the refraction test is an examination that tests an individual’s ability to see an object at a specific distance. The test is performed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist in the doctor’s office. The refraction test involves looking through a device to read letters or recognize symbols on a wall chart through […]
- Refractory
Not yielding, or not yielding readily, to treatment.
- Refractory anemia
Anemia that is unresponsive to treatment.