Gag Reflex

A rapid and intense contraction of the pharyngeal muscles to expel material before it enters the THROAT. Touching the back of the soft palate activates the gag REFLEX in most people, causing a retching action. The gag reflex is more sensitive in some people, interfering with health examinations of the throat or dental examinations and treatment. HYPNOSIS and BIOFEEDBACK are two methods by which people can learn to delay or minimize the gag reflex. Health conditions that can activate the gag reflex include severe PHARYNGITIS, EPIGLOTTITIS, and profuse POSTNASAL DRIP. Sprays to anesthetize the throat, such as to treat relieve sore throat PAIN or for ENDOSCOPY procedures, temporarily numb the nerves in the soft palate to subdue the gag reflex. A reduced or absent gag reflex, which can result in potentially life-threatening ASPIRATION, may occur with STROKE and neurologic disorders such as CEREBRAL PALSY and PARKINSON’S DISEASE.