Throat

Throat_Diagram.png

== Throat ==

The throat is a part of the anatomy of vertebrates that is situated behind the mouth and nasal cavity, and above the esophagus and trachea. It is a muscular tube that serves as a passageway for both food and air. The throat includes several important structures such as the pharynx, larynx, and the epiglottis.

Anatomy

Pharynx

The pharynx is a part of the throat situated immediately behind the nasal cavity, behind the mouth, and above the esophagus and larynx. The pharynx is divided into three sections:

• The nasopharynx: Located behind the nasal cavity.
• The oropharynx: Located behind the oral cavity.
• The laryngopharynx: Located behind the larynx.

Larynx

The larynx, also known as the voice box, is located below the pharynx and above the trachea. It houses the vocal cords and is responsible for phonation, the production of sound. The larynx also plays a crucial role in protecting the trachea against food aspiration.

Epiglottis

The epiglottis is a leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located at the root of the tongue, which is depressed during swallowing to cover the opening of the windpipe. This prevents food and drink from entering the trachea.

Function

The throat has several important functions:

• **Respiration**: It serves as a passageway for air to enter the lungs.
• **Swallowing**: It helps in the movement of food from the mouth to the esophagus.
• **Speech**: The larynx, located in the throat, is essential for the production of sound.

Common Throat Conditions

Several medical conditions can affect the throat, including:

• Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx, often referred to as a sore throat.
• Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, often causing hoarseness or loss of voice.
• Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, which are located in the oropharynx.
• Throat cancer: A type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the throat.

See Also

• Esophagus
• Trachea
• Respiratory system
• Digestive system