A hiatal hernia affects the function of the smooth muscle between the esophagus and the stomach. The hernia would be most likely to increase the frequency of which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A hiatal hernia can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to weaken, leading to gastric reflux, which is the backward flow of stomach acid and contents into the esophagus. This can cause symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. The hernia is not likely to affect the premature entry of food into the duodenum, secretion of pepsinogen, stomach pH, or retention of food in the stomach.

A Hiatal Hernia Affects the Function of the Smooth Muscle