The upper gastrointestinal tract is composed of five major organs and structures: the oral cavity and salivary glands, pharynx, the esophagus, the stomach, and duodenum. Each of these structures assists in the digestive functions of the body. The oral cavity is where mechanical digestion begins. Salivary glands secrete saliva to create a bolus. The bolus is then swallowed, moving through the pharynx to the stomach. In the stomach the bolus is mixed with digestive enzymes, acid, and mucin to create chyme. The chyme then moves from the stomach to the duodenum. It then makes its way through the lower gastrointestinal tract, in summary the body absorbs the nutrients in the lower GI tract then eliminates the waste.
Swallowing, also called …show more content…
Chronic reflux esophagitis may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD. This reflux is often seen in overweight individuals and smokers. It also may occur in individuals that eat large meal before bed. Although a malfunctioning Inferior esophageal sphincter can be present from birth and can cause infants and children to complain of stomachaches and have frequent bouts of vomiting, GERD is most often seen in adults. (Franz and Davidson). During the esophageal phase of deglutition the superior and inferior esophageal sphincters normally relax to allow passage of the bolus and contract to prevent reflux, GERD is caused because the inferior esophageal sphincter weak. The muscle of the diaphragm also at the esophageal opening also contracts to help prevent backflow from the stomach to the esophagus. GERD can be treated with medication; however, lifestyle changes can also help prevent occurrences. Patients that suffer from GERD are advised to limit meal sizes, lose weight, or quit smoking. It is also recommended to avoid ingesting spicy foods or high amounts of caffeine, and avoid eating at least two hours before going to
Swallowing, also called …show more content…
Chronic reflux esophagitis may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease, also called GERD. This reflux is often seen in overweight individuals and smokers. It also may occur in individuals that eat large meal before bed. Although a malfunctioning Inferior esophageal sphincter can be present from birth and can cause infants and children to complain of stomachaches and have frequent bouts of vomiting, GERD is most often seen in adults. (Franz and Davidson). During the esophageal phase of deglutition the superior and inferior esophageal sphincters normally relax to allow passage of the bolus and contract to prevent reflux, GERD is caused because the inferior esophageal sphincter weak. The muscle of the diaphragm also at the esophageal opening also contracts to help prevent backflow from the stomach to the esophagus. GERD can be treated with medication; however, lifestyle changes can also help prevent occurrences. Patients that suffer from GERD are advised to limit meal sizes, lose weight, or quit smoking. It is also recommended to avoid ingesting spicy foods or high amounts of caffeine, and avoid eating at least two hours before going to