What is the anatomy of the throat and how does it work? The throat is a multi functional part of the human body that works both the digestive and respiratory systems. The throat performs life saving duties such as breathing and swallowing food.
Different Parts of the Throat
The throat is divided into 3 parts and different glands. All these parts of the throat perform specific functions according to the human body’s needs.
1. Nasopharynx
The area of the throat behind the nose is the nasopharynx, also known as the roof of the mouth. It provides a passage to the air to get it to reach the windpipe.
2. Oropharynx
It is present behind the oral cavity and is termed the middle part of the throat. The tongue’s tonsils, soft palate, and base are present in the oropharynx. The oropharynx involves in bolus formation and also helps in swallowing.
3. Laryngopharynx
It is the innermost part of the pharynx or throat and is a crucial point where food, water, and air decide where to go.
4. Tonsils
These are 2 lymph nodes present at the top of the pharynx. The tonsils are a defense mechanism as they filter out bacteria and other impurities to protect the body from infection.
The tonsils are related to the ear and nose, and if there is any infection that affects these two can affect the tonsils indirectly.
Throat Diseases
The throat is constantly in touch with the outer environment and performs essential tasks. When it comes to breathing, there is the involvement of the throat, and when we talk about swallowing food or any other fluid, the throat provides the passage for it.
As you can see, its direct interaction with the surroundings, the throat is always at the risk of getting infected with any disease. Not just its surroundings, but if you are having a nose or ear infection, there are higher chances that your throat might get infected with it. Some of the common throat infections and diseases are:
Sore throat: is a painful condition that makes it difficult for a person to swallow anything. Various causes of sore throat, viruses, and bacteria are usually involved. During sore throat, the infected area turns red, and you can’t even speak properly.
Tonsillitis: it is the condition of swollen tonsils. It is usually due to the bacteria and viruses that infect the tonsils. A person with swollen tonsils complains of extreme pain while swallowing food and sometimes even fluids.
Hoarseness: is a condition causing sore throat and other related disorders. It can improve with time, but if it gets serious, you should consult a doctor or specialist.
Laryngitis: is another painful condition due to the larynx’s inflammation. Difficulty in breathing, coughing, etc., is the symptoms if you get laryngitis.
Growth of lesions in the throat: This may be a cancerous condition if you get any lesions or fleshy masses in your throat. In severe cases, these masses can block air passage, and it’s better to visit a doctor at once.
Snoring: is not a throat disease at all, but it’s better to know the cause of it. Your throat relates to the ear and nose, and there are high chances that ear and nose problems are causing snoring.
Dysphagia: this condition is comprehensively related to swallowing problems. There are various reasons for dysphagia which can happen to anyone. It includes pain while swallowing, acidity, or sometimes due to hoarseness.
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Anatomy of the throat Conclusion: Consult an ENT Specialist
You can get temporary comfort at home, but for permanent treatment, it’s better to pay a visit to the best ENT specialist. Dr. Michael C. Burnett, at Ear, Nose & Throat of New York will consult with you and reccommend specialized treatment for any health conditions pertaining to the throat.
Reach out to us now to get a proper diagnosis.
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