Why does stomach acid not damage the small intestine?

Why does stomach acid not damage the small intestine?

As the stomach contents pass from the stomach to the small intestine, their acidity is rapidly neutralized by the addition of HCO3- produced by the pancreasa good thing, too, because the mucosa of the small intestine has no other protection against HCl.

Why does our stomach acid not harm us?

The cells lining your stomach wall secrete this acidic trio. The cells also release several enzymes and mucus. This mucus is vitally important to the process. It protects the lining of your stomach so the acid and other gastric juices don’t damage the sensitive organ.

What prevents gastric acid from damaging the stomach?

Gastric acid is regulated in feedback systems to increase production when needed, such as after a meal. Other cells in the stomach produce bicarbonate, a base, to buffer the fluid, ensuring a regulated pH. These cells also produce mucus – a viscous barrier to prevent gastric acid from damaging the stomach.

Why does stomach acid not damage the duodenum?

Stomach DOES damage the small intestine – if it is not adequately neutralized. The bicarbonate usually adequately neutralizes the acid from the stomach, as well as establishes a proper “neutral” pH required by the enzymes that will function there.

What causes overproduction of acid in the stomach?

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare condition in which one or more tumors form in your pancreas or the upper part of your small intestine (duodenum). These tumors, called gastrinomas, secrete large amounts of the hormone gastrin, which causes your stomach to produce too much acid.

Will gastritis ever go away?

Symptoms of chronic gastritis can sometimes go away in a few hours if medications or alcohol is causing your gastritis to act up. But typically chronic gastritis takes longer to disappear. And without treatment it may persist for years.

Can I ever drink alcohol again with gastritis?

If you are experiencing gastritis, it’s best to avoid alcohol until your symptoms have resolved; then, drink no more than 1 to 2 drinks per day.