What condition is caused by malfunction of a valve or sphincter that can lead to acid reflux?

What condition is caused by malfunction of a valve or sphincter that can lead to acid reflux?

• A. Sphincter malfunction
• B. Duodenal atresia
• C. Gastric ulcer
• D. Intestinal obstruction

Answer: (A)

A malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. Normally this valve stays closed to keep stomach contents from rising and only relaxes briefly to let food pass; when it’s weak or doesn’t close properly, acid can escape upward, leading to reflux or GERD. The other conditions listed involve blockages or ulcers in the digestive tract and do not stem from a valve failing to prevent reflux, so they don’t explain this mechanism.

A malfunctioning lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing acid reflux. Normally this valve stays closed to keep stomach contents from rising and only relaxes briefly to let food pass; when it’s weak or doesn’t close properly, acid can escape upward, leading to reflux or GERD. The other conditions listed involve blockages or ulcers in the digestive tract and do not stem from a valve failing to prevent reflux, so they don’t explain this mechanism.