What is Barrett's esophagus?
Your esophagus is a tube that goes from your throat to your stomach. When you swallow, food travels down this tube and into your stomach. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (also called GERD) is a health problem that happens when stomach acid goes up into your esophagus. If this happens over a long period of time, the acid can make changes in the lining of your esophagus. This condition is called Barrett's esophagus. In some cases, it can lead to cancer.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Source
Barrett's Esophagus by MD Shalauta, M.D., and R Saad, M.D. (American Family Physician May 01, 2004, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20040501/2113.html)
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 11/10
Created: 01/05