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 sensiti.. Read More
Health and Wellness | 02.11.10 | No Comments
An elongated, valvelike channel of tissue that connects the middle EAR and the THROAT. The eustachian tube relaxes or constricts to equalize the pressure between the middle ear and the external environment. The sensation of the ears “popp.. Read More
Health and Wellness | 02.11.10 | No Comments
A learned method to restore verbal communication for people who have undergone LARYNGECTOMY (surgical removal of the larynx, or voice box). When the THROAT is intact, air coming out of the LUNGS passes through the VOCAL CORDS and other stru.. Read More
Health and Wellness | 02.7.10 | No Comments
A generalized term for sensations of pressure, discomfort, and PAIN in the area of the EAR. Pain messages from other structures of the head and neck, such as the NOSE and THROAT, also sometimes appear to come from the ear (referred pain). A.. Read More
Health and Wellness | 01.23.10 | 1 Comment
