Pharynx

Pharynx: structure, functions and role in the body

The pharynx is an important organ that plays a role in both the respiratory and digestive systems. It is a canal that starts from the nasal cavity, passes through the back of the mouth and empties into the larynx and esophagus.

Pharynx structure

The pharynx consists of three parts: the nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngeal part. The nasopharynx is the upper part of the pharynx, which is adjacent to the nasal cavity. The oropharynx forms the posterior wall of the oral cavity and contains two tonsils at its entrance. The laryngeal part of the pharynx is located behind the tonsils and connects the pharynx to the larynx and esophagus.

Functions of the pharynx

The pharynx performs several important functions in the body. Firstly, it is part of the respiratory system and serves to transfer air from the nose and mouth to the lungs. At the bottom of the pharynx is the epiglottis, which closes when food passes to prevent it from entering the respiratory tract.

Secondly, the pharynx is part of the digestive system. It passes food from the mouth to the esophagus and stomach. The epiglottis plays an important role in the digestion process, ensuring that food always enters the esophagus.

Finally, the pharynx also has a protective function, thanks to the tonsils, which fight infections caused by viruses and bacteria that enter through the mouth.

The role of the pharynx in the body

The pharynx plays an important role in the body, connecting the respiratory and digestive systems. It also plays a protective role by preventing food and other substances from entering the respiratory tract.

Impaired pharyngeal function can lead to a variety of problems, including breathing problems and digestive problems. Some diseases, such as pharyngeal cancer, can affect a person's health and well-being.

Conclusion

The pharynx is an important organ that performs several important functions in the body. It is part of the respiratory and digestive system and also plays a protective role by fighting infections caused by viruses and bacteria. Understanding the structure and function of the pharynx will help you maintain good health and well-being.

The pharynx is an unpaired organ of the human respiratory and digestive systems, located in the neck area, the boundaries of which are above - the nasal cavity, below - the oral cavity, on the sides - teeth and soft tissues covering the teeth (tonsils).

The anatomy of the pharynx is simple. Its cavity is formed by a vault, walls and various openings.

The vault is located between the nasal and oral cavities. In its normal position it is directed upward. On the upper surface of the vault, which has the shape of a dome, there are wedge-shaped processes of both large plates of the hyoid bone, overhanging the nasal cavity. This anatmic configuration contributes to the closure of the human digestive tract in cases of its incomplete opening. In the pharyngeal cavity, which begins with the blind fissure, there are three openings through which it connects to the esophagus, larynx and nose. The fissure connects the pharynx with the nasal cavity at the back and with the oropharynx transversely at the front. The lingual arch emerges through a hole in the anterior part of the pharynx. The holes in the posterior section serve to exit the respiratory tract. Thanks to these holes, ventilation of the lower parts of the larynx and trachea is ensured.