Uvula

Uvula

The Uvula is a conical or bell-shaped projection hanging down from the middle of the soft palate in the human mouth. It is composed of connective tissue, muscle fibers, and a number of glands that produce saliva. The uvula plays a key role in the articulation of several phonetic sounds and in the process of swallowing.

Anatomy

The uvula is located at the back of the throat, suspended above the tongue. It is approximately 30 to 40 millimeters in length and 10 millimeters in width. The uvula contains a large number of serous glands that produce saliva, which keeps the mouth moist and aids in digestion.

Function

The uvula has several functions. It aids in the articulation of several sounds in human speech, particularly in some languages that use uvular consonants. It also plays a role in swallowing by preventing food and drink from entering the nasopharynx, and it helps to keep the mouth moist by producing saliva.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities of the uvula can lead to a number of health problems. Uvulitis is inflammation of the uvula, which can cause difficulty swallowing and a choking sensation. Uvular deviation is a condition in which the uvula deviates to one side, which can be a sign of a nerve lesion. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove or reshape the uvula, often performed to treat sleep apnea.

See also

• Palate
• Throat
• Tonsil

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