Gastric juice can back up form the stomach into the esophagus and cause heartburn. What sphincter, weakened by a hiatal hernia, can contributes this condition?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cardioesophageal sphincter, also known as the lower esophageal sphincter, is the sphincter that connects the esophagus to the stomach. A hiatal hernia weakens this sphincter, which can lead to gastric juice backing up into the esophagus and causing heartburn. The other sphincters listed (upper esophageal, pyloric, external anal, and ileocecal) are not involved in this process.

Gastric Juice Can Back Up Form the Stomach into the Esophagus