Esophagus Anatomy & Function 2025: Length, Width, and Health Insights
Explore the detailed anatomy and vital functions of the esophagus, the muscular tube that transports food and liquids from mouth to stomach. Learn about its structure, common disorders like GERD, and how to maintain esophageal health.
The esophagus is a flexible, muscular tube responsible for moving saliva, liquids, and food from the mouth directly into the stomach. Typically, when a person is standing upright, this tube measures approximately 25 to 30 centimeters in length and has an average diameter ranging from 1.5 to 2 centimeters.
At both ends of the esophagus, specialized sphincter muscles tightly seal the tube to prevent stomach contents from flowing backward into the esophagus or mouth. These sphincters relax momentarily during swallowing, allowing food and liquids to pass through smoothly.
Positioned near critical structures such as the trachea and the left side of the heart, the esophagus can sometimes cause sensations mistaken for heart or throat pain, especially when irritated by very hot foods or other factors.
Like any organ, the esophagus is susceptible to damage and disease. Common issues include heartburn and esophageal cancer. The most prevalent condition is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to close properly, causing stomach acids to flow back and irritate the esophageal lining. If left untreated, GERD can lead to complications such as esophageal ulcers.
Discover the latest news and current events in Sexual Wellness as of 23-01-2018. The article titled " Esophagus Anatomy & Function 2025: Length, Width, and Health Insights " provides you with the most relevant and reliable information in the Sexual Wellness field. Each news piece is thoroughly analyzed to deliver valuable insights to our readers.
The information in " Esophagus Anatomy & Function 2025: Length, Width, and Health Insights " helps you make better-informed decisions within the Sexual Wellness category. Our news articles are continuously updated and adhere to journalistic standards.