Pharyngeal reflex
Pharyngeal reflex or gag reflex is a reflex contraction of the back of the throat, evoked by touching the roof of the mouth, the back of the tongue, the area around the tonsils, the uvula, and the back of the throat. It prevents choking and regulates the flow of air and food down the throat.
Mechanism[edit | edit source]
The pharyngeal reflex is mediated by the glossopharyngeal nerve, which supplies the sensory limb, and the vagus nerve, which supplies the motor limb. When the sensitive areas of the tonsils, oropharynx, the back of the tongue, uvula or the roof of the mouth are touched, the muscles of the throat contract, creating the gag reflex.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
The pharyngeal reflex is often tested in a clinical setting to assess the nerves and muscles involved in swallowing. A diminished or absent gag reflex can indicate a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. It can be a sign of a number of serious medical conditions, including stroke, brain injury, tumors, polio, or damage to the nerves or muscles of the throat.
Variations[edit | edit source]
The sensitivity of the gag reflex varies from person to person. Some people have a hypersensitive gag reflex, while others may not have a gag reflex at all. The absence of a gag reflex is generally not a problem, and in fact, is beneficial in some professions such as sword swallowing.
See also[edit | edit source]
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