Your stomach is a muscular organ that digests food. It is part of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When your stomach receives food, it contracts and produces acids and enzymes that break down food. When your stomach has broken down food, it passes it to your small intestine. Show
OverviewThe digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal tract-mouth, esophagus, stomach, small & large intestine, and rectum.What is the stomach?The stomach is a J-shaped organ that digests food. It produces enzymes (substances that create chemical reactions) and acids (digestive juices). This mix of enzymes and digestive juices breaks down food so it can pass to your small intestine. Your stomach is part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract is a long tube that starts at your mouth. It runs to your anus, where stool (poop) leaves your body. The GI tract is a key part of your digestive system. FunctionWhat is the stomach’s function?Your stomach’s purpose is to digest food and send it to your small intestine. It has three functions:
How does the stomach work with the rest of the GI tract?Each part of your GI tract breaks down food and liquid and carries it through your body. During the digestive process, your body absorbs nutrients and water. Then, you expel the waste products of digestion through your large intestine. Food moves through your GI tract in a few steps:
AnatomyWhere is the stomach located?Your stomach sits in your upper abdomen on the left side of your body. The top of your stomach connects to a valve called the esophageal sphincter (a muscle at the end of your esophagus). The bottom of your stomach connects to your small intestine. How big is your stomach?The size of the stomach varies from person to person. Your stomach expands when full and deflates when empty. Because of this, your stomach size can vary depending on how recently and how much you have eaten. What are the parts of the stomach’s anatomy?Your stomach has five distinct sections:
What is the stomach’s structure?Several layers of muscle and other tissues make up your stomach:
CareHow can I keep my stomach healthy?You can make lifestyle changes to keep your stomach and digestive system healthy. You may:
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat should I ask my doctor about my stomach?If you have chronic stomach symptoms, you may speak with a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists are doctors who specialize in treating the digestive system. You may ask:
When should I call my doctor?Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:
A note from Cleveland Clinic Your stomach is a muscular organ in your upper abdomen. It is part of your GI tract. During digestion, your stomach contracts, relaxes and produces acids that help break down food. Your stomach size can vary depending on when and how much you have eaten. You can keep your stomach and digestive system healthy by eating healthy foods, exercising and managing stress. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information
enews More health news + infoWhat causes pain in the right side of the stomach?Pain on the right side of the abdomen can be caused by conditions such as appendicitis, hernia, kidney issues, reproductive system issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), indigestion, or even gas. There are many possible reasons for discomfort in your right abdominal region.
When should I be concerned about right side pain?If you have severe abdominal pain,especially on the right side, it's a good idea to consult a physician and rule out causes that need immediate attention, such as appendicitis, an ectopic pregnancy, ulcer or kidney stones.
What organ is on the right side of your belly?For instance, the right upper part of the abdomen is where the liver, gall bladder, right kidney, and pancreas are located. In the left upper quadrant, the stomach, left kidney, and spleen are situated.
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