Description

What is Stomach? The stomach is a muscular organ located in the upper abdomen, just below the rib cage. It plays a vital role in the digestive system by receiving and processing food. Here are some key features and functions of the stomach: 1. Anatomy: The stomach is a J-shaped organ that can expand and contract. It consists of different regions, including the cardia (upper part near the esophagus), fundus (upper curved part), body (main central portion), and antrum (lower part near the small intestine). The opening between the esophagus and the stomach is called the lower esophageal sphincter, and the opening between the stomach and the small intestine is called the pyloric sphincter. 2 Digestive Function: The primary function of the stomach is to break down and digest food. It accomplishes this through the secretion of gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and enzymes, such as pepsin. These substances help break down proteins, initiate the digestion of carbohydrates and fats, and kill harmful bacteria present in the ingested food. 3 Storage and Mixing: The stomach acts as a temporary storage reservoir for food. When you eat, the stomach relaxes to accommodate the food and gradually contracts to mix it with gastric secretions, creating a semi-fluid mixture called chyme. 4 Absorption: While the stomach is mainly responsible for digestion, it also facilitates the absorption of certain substances. Small amounts of water, alcohol, and some medications can be absorbed directly through the stomach lining. 5 Regulation of Emptying: The stomach regulates the emptying of partially digested food into the small intestine. The pyloric sphincter controls the rate at which chyme is released into the small intestine, allowing for proper digestion and absorption. It's important to note that the stomach is just one part of the digestive system. After food leaves the stomach, it enters the small intestine, where further digestion and absorption of nutrients occur. If you have concerns about your stomach or digestive health, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis Common Diseases of Stomach are : • Acid peptic disease and H. pylori infection • Cancer of Stomach

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