Uvula: Difference between revisions
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{{Short description|Fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate}} | {{Short description|Fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate}} | ||
The '''uvula''' is a conic projection from the posterior edge of the middle of the [[soft palate]]. It is composed of connective tissue, some [[muscle]] fibers, and is covered by a [[mucous membrane]]. | The '''uvula''' is a conic projection from the posterior edge of the middle of the [[soft palate]]. It is composed of connective tissue, some [[muscle]] fibers, and is covered by a [[mucous membrane]]. | ||
[[File:Tanya_Uvula.jpg|thumb|A normal uvula|left]] | |||
[[File:Swollen_Uvula.jpg|thumb|A swollen uvula]] | |||
[[File:Swollenuvula.jpg|thumb|Another image of a swollen uvula|left]] | |||
==Anatomy== | ==Anatomy== | ||
The uvula is located at the back of the [[throat]], hanging from the middle of the soft palate. It is made up of the [[musculus uvulae]], which is a small muscle that shortens and broadens the uvula. This action helps close the [[nasopharynx]] during swallowing, preventing food from entering the [[nasal cavity]]. | The uvula is located at the back of the [[throat]], hanging from the middle of the soft palate. It is made up of the [[musculus uvulae]], which is a small muscle that shortens and broadens the uvula. This action helps close the [[nasopharynx]] during swallowing, preventing food from entering the [[nasal cavity]]. | ||
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==Clinical significance== | ==Clinical significance== | ||
The uvula can be involved in several medical conditions. A swollen uvula, known as [[uvulitis]], can cause discomfort and difficulty swallowing. It may result from infections, allergies, or trauma. In some cases, a long uvula can contribute to [[snoring]] or [[sleep apnea]]. | The uvula can be involved in several medical conditions. A swollen uvula, known as [[uvulitis]], can cause discomfort and difficulty swallowing. It may result from infections, allergies, or trauma. In some cases, a long uvula can contribute to [[snoring]] or [[sleep apnea]]. | ||
==Surgical procedures== | ==Surgical procedures== | ||
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* [[Pharynx]] | * [[Pharynx]] | ||
* [[Sleep apnea]] | * [[Sleep apnea]] | ||
[[Category:Human anatomy]] | [[Category:Human anatomy]] | ||
Latest revision as of 04:13, 29 March 2025
Fleshy extension at the back of the soft palate
The uvula is a conic projection from the posterior edge of the middle of the soft palate. It is composed of connective tissue, some muscle fibers, and is covered by a mucous membrane.
Anatomy[edit]
The uvula is located at the back of the throat, hanging from the middle of the soft palate. It is made up of the musculus uvulae, which is a small muscle that shortens and broadens the uvula. This action helps close the nasopharynx during swallowing, preventing food from entering the nasal cavity.
Function[edit]
The uvula plays a role in speech and swallowing. It helps articulate a range of sounds in various languages, particularly those that require a guttural sound. During swallowing, the uvula moves with the soft palate to close off the nasopharynx, directing food down the esophagus.
Clinical significance[edit]
The uvula can be involved in several medical conditions. A swollen uvula, known as uvulitis, can cause discomfort and difficulty swallowing. It may result from infections, allergies, or trauma. In some cases, a long uvula can contribute to snoring or sleep apnea.
Surgical procedures[edit]
In certain cases, surgical removal of the uvula, known as uvulectomy, may be performed. This procedure is sometimes used to treat snoring or sleep apnea, although it is not commonly recommended due to potential complications.
