Pharynx and Epiglottis

Pharynx Anatomy

The throat, or pharynxThe muscular passageway connecting the mouth to the esophagus and larynx., has three regions. The nasopharynx connects to the nasal cavityThe internal space behind the nose that filters, warms, and humidifies incoming air.. The oropharynx connects to the mouthThe opening of the digestive tract where food enters and mastication begins.. Finally, the hypopharynx is near the epiglottisA flap of cartilage that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airw and larynxThe voice box; contains vocal cords and connects the pharynx to the trachea..  A sore throat is also known as pharyngitis, pictured on the left.  Pharyngeal constrictor muscles are neckNarrow region just below the head; common fracture site. muscles, both voluntarily and involuntarily controlled, that function in swallowing and speech.  Speech therapists are like physical therapists for these muscles. 

Pharynx Mucosa

The pharynx is lined with stratified squamous epithelial cellsThe basic structural and functional units of life..  Keratinized patches are more numerous in the oropharynx, preventing waterThe universal solvent essential for life. loss from those cells in the mouth. Mucus-producing glands are present throughout the pharynx, aiding in lubricating a swallowed bolusA rounded mass of food mixed with saliva that is ready for swallowing..

Epiglottis

The epiglottis, a flap of elastic cartilageA flexible cartilage type found in the ear and epiglottis., covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. This mechanism explains the sensation of something “going down the wrong pipe.” The Adam’s apple, more pronounced under the influence of testosterone, moves up as the epiglottis moves down. Gender-affirming surgeries may reduce the Adam’s apple’s prominence.