Epiglottis (lid on larynx)
– if particles get past the epiglottis it causes a cough reflex ; lid opens to swallow
The epiglottis is a flap of tissue located at the base of the tongue, which covers the opening of the larynx, or the voice box, during swallowing. Its primary function is to prevent food and liquid from entering the windpipe and lungs. When we swallow, the muscles in our tongue and throat work together to move food and liquids to the back of the mouth and into the esophagus. The epiglottis helps to direct the food away from the larynx and into the esophagus, ensuring that it ends up in the stomach.
The epiglottis is held in position by a number of muscles, including the hyoid bone, which is located between the chin and the larynx. When we swallow, the larynx is lifted upwards by the muscles pulling on the hyoid bone, while the epiglottis is pushed down over it to cover the opening of the larynx. This process is essential in preventing food from entering the trachea, which could lead to choking, aspiration pneumonia, or other serious respiratory problems.
If the epiglottis is damaged or not functioning properly, it can cause difficulty in swallowing and breathing. In some cases, it may become inflamed or infected, leading to a condition called epiglottitis, which is characterized by severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing. In such situations, immediate medical attention is needed to prevent serious complications. Regular check-ups and maintaining good hygiene, like washing hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who are infected, can prevent such problems.
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