Gastric Physiology Quiz

The inner layer of the stomach that protects it from the harsh acidic environment.

Tiny depressions in the gastric lining that help with secretion and absorption.

Specialized cells within the gastric lining that produce digestive juices like hydrochloric acid.

Cells in the stomach lining that secrete hydrochloric acid (HCL) and intrinsic factor.

Cells in the gastric lining that produce sticky mucus which protects the stomach lining from damage.

A muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, responsible for transporting food.

The flap that closes over the trachea (windpipe) during swallowing, preventing food or liquids from entering the airway.

A temporary storage container for food, where it is churned and mixed with gastric juices to break it down into chyme (a creamy consistency).

A ring of muscle at the end of the esophagus, controlling the entry of food into the stomach.

A large, pouch-like organ that receives chyme from the stomach. It's responsible for absorbing water, salts, and nutrients.

The first section of the small intestine, where most chemical digestion occurs.

The last section of the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption happens.

A ring of muscle that separates the small and large intestines, controlling the flow of chyme into the large intestine.

The ileocecal valve is a one-way valve that controls the flow of materials from the small intestine into the large intestine.

The cecum is the first part of the large intestine, a pouch-like structure where the small intestine joins the colon.

The appendix is a small, finger-like projection attached to the cecum. It is believed to play a role in maintaining healthy gut bacteria.

The colon is the longest part of the large intestine, divided into four sections: ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid.

The sigmoid colon is the S-shaped portion of the descending colon that connects to the rectum.

The rectum is the straight portion of the large intestine that connects to the anal canal.

The anal canal is the short, final section of the large intestine that ends at the anus.

The internal and external anal sphincters are muscles that control the opening and closing of the anus, regulating the passing of stool.

Caused by stretching of hollow organs or solid organs. Commonly described as cramping, achy, dull, burning, colicky, and poorly localized. It starts gradually.

Caused by inflammation or irritation of the parietal peritoneum (lining of the abdominal cavity). Characterized by sharp, stabbing pain that is steady and severe, localized tenderness, guarding, rigidity, rebound, and well localized. It starts suddenly.

Pain that originates from a primary site but is perceived at a distant location. Often highly localized.

Major digestive organ responsible for digesting proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine.

Filters blood, produces bile, and detoxifies substances.

Stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver, releasing it into the small intestine to aid in fat digestion.

Produces saliva, a fluid that helps lubricate food and begins the breakdown of starches. Contains enzymes, mucus, and water.

Break down food mechanically, making it easier to swallow and digest.

An abnormal protrusion of the abdomen, often caused by factors like obesity, fluid buildup, or air trapped in the digestive system.

A sunken or concave appearance of the abdomen, typically seen in individuals with severe weight loss.

A bluish discoloration around the belly button, often indicating internal bleeding.

An abnormal increase in the pulsations of the aorta, often associated with an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Inflammation of the mouth, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and sores.

A blockage in the intestines that prevents the passage of food and bowel movements.

A condition where the rectum and anus are unable to empty the bowels properly, resulting in constipation.

A common, non-contagious condition characterized by small, painful ulcers in the mouth.

An overgrowth of yeast in the mouth, often appearing as white patches.

A condition characterized by frequent, loose, watery stools.

A form of stool characterized by its black, tarry appearance due to blood from the upper gastrointestinal tract.

A form of stool characterized by bright red blood, indicating bleeding in the lower gastrointestinal tract.

Difficulty swallowing, which can be acute or gradual, intermittent or continuous.

A condition marked by infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements.

A fatty stool, usually bulky, greasy, foul-smelling, and gray with a silvery sheen.