What is uvula?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition or explanation of the uvula, which is a small fleshy structure located at the back of the throat. It plays roles in speech and swallowing and can also impact certain reflexes.
Answer
The uvula is the fleshy hanging ball in the throat, part of the soft palate.
The uvula is the small, fleshy protrusion hanging from the back of the throat, part of the soft palate. It assists in preventing food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing, and secretes saliva to keep the mouth hydrated.
Answer for screen readers
The uvula is the small, fleshy protrusion hanging from the back of the throat, part of the soft palate. It assists in preventing food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity during swallowing, and secretes saliva to keep the mouth hydrated.
More Information
The uvula plays a role in speech and also triggers the gag reflex, which helps prevent choking.
Tips
Confusing the uvula with the epiglottis is common; the uvula is located above the throat while the epiglottis is below.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic on Uvula - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Uvula - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- What Is the Purpose of Your Uvula? - WebMD - webmd.com
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