CARDIAC SPHINCTER Meaning and
Definition
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The cardiac sphincter, also known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is a circular muscle located at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. It is responsible for regulating the flow of food and preventing the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.
The function of the cardiac sphincter is crucial in maintaining proper digestion and preventing reflux. When we eat, the cardiac sphincter relaxes to allow food to pass from the esophagus into the stomach. Once food enters the stomach, the sphincter contracts tightly to prevent gastric acid from rising back up into the esophagus, which could lead to heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
The cardiac sphincter is made up of smooth muscles, allowing it to contract and expand as required. It acts as a barrier, tightly sealing the opening between the esophagus and the stomach when the stomach is not actively digesting food. This muscular valve remains closed to maintain the separation between the two organs and prevent the stomach acids from irritating or damaging the lining of the esophagus.
Dysfunction or weakening of the cardiac sphincter can result in various digestive disorders, such as acid reflux and heartburn. In such cases, stomach acid and partially digested food can flow backward into the esophagus, causing discomfort and potentially damaging the esophageal lining. Understanding the role and importance of the cardiac sphincter is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Common Misspellings for CARDIAC SPHINCTER
- xardiac sphincter
- vardiac sphincter
- fardiac sphincter
- dardiac sphincter
- czrdiac sphincter
- csrdiac sphincter
- cwrdiac sphincter
- cqrdiac sphincter
- caediac sphincter
- caddiac sphincter
- cafdiac sphincter
- catdiac sphincter
- ca5diac sphincter
- ca4diac sphincter
- carsiac sphincter
- carxiac sphincter
- carciac sphincter
- carfiac sphincter
- carriac sphincter
Etymology of CARDIAC SPHINCTER
The term "cardiac sphincter" is derived from a combination of Greek and Latin roots.
The word "cardiac" comes from the Greek term "kardia", which means "heart". In this context, it refers to the anatomical structure of the heart.
The word "sphincter" is derived from the Greek term "sphinkter", meaning "a band that binds tightly". In anatomy, a sphincter refers to a circular muscle that acts as a valve controlling the opening and closing of a passage in the body.
Therefore, the term "cardiac sphincter" refers to the muscular ring located at the lower end of the esophagus, near where it connects to the stomach.
Similar spelling words for CARDIAC SPHINCTER
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