Barrett's oesophagus
People who experience persistent heartburn are at risk of developing Barrett's oesophagus. The chronic reflux of gastric juices causes changes in the cell lining of the lower oesophagus, which can sometimes turn cancerous. Treatment includes ... [... more]
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Heartburn is a form of indigestion
Heartburn or reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach back up into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation. Most healthy people experience heartburn from time to time. Pregnant women can also experience heartburn. Overweight people can ... [... more]
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Throat cancer
Throat cancer can originate in the oesophagus (gullet), larynx (voice box), thyroid gland or cells lining the throat (pharynx). Risk factors for throat cancer include smoking and heavy alcohol consumption. Smokers who drink heavily are at even ... [... more]
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Birth defects - digestive tract
Birth defects of the digestive tract include oesophageal atresia (obstruction of the oesophagus) and imperforate anus (malformations of the anus). Most babies born with oesophageal atresia also have tracheo-oesophageal fistula, which means the ... [... more]
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Toddlers and choking
Choking is caused by an object going into the trachea (windpipe) instead of the oesophagus (food pipe). Toddlers can choke on food and small items, such as buttons or beads. Parents can take many precautions to reduce the risk. Air enters the ... [... more]
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