Uvula Palatine

The uvula of the palate (lat. uvula palatii; English uvulae, n.p.) is a small fold of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, located in the oropharynx. The uvula is a very important structure for human health. It protects the back of the pharynx from food and infection, is involved in the chewing process, and affects the timbre of the voice. It can also be a carrier of pathogenic flora in inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs.

LANGUAGE PALLATINE - the palatine uvula is a fold of the mucous membrane located in the back of the hard palate (arch of the palate). Used to protect the posterior surface of the soft palate.

The uvula has special folds and its shape depends on the point from which it begins - this can be either part of the side wall of the pharynx or the palatine ridge itself. It is covered with narrow papillary villi that stimulate areas of the tongue, which increases the sensitivity of its periphery. This, in turn, regulates its movement and prevents the tongue from sticking out behind the teeth. By rising during speech and relaxing when pausing, it closes the opening for food entry. In addition, in the recesses of its folds there are glands that secrete mucus, which moisturizes and cleanses the surface of the pharynx.