A small, fleshy structure hangs at the back of the throat, an area integral to breathing, speaking, and eating.
The Uvula: What it Is
The uvula, also known as the palatine uvula, is a small, soft, teardrop-shaped piece of tissue that extends downward from the middle of the soft palate, the fleshy back part of the roof of your mouth.
The uvula consists of connective tissue, muscle fibers, and glands. Its surface is covered by a mucous membrane, which helps keep it moist and protected.
Functions of the Uvula
The uvula serves several functions.
One primary role is in swallowing, where it works with the soft palate to prevent food and liquids from entering the nasal cavity. As you swallow, the uvula and soft palate move backward and upward, sealing off the passage to the nose and directing substances down the esophagus.
It contributes to speech by helping articulate certain sounds, particularly guttural sounds found in languages like French, German, Hebrew, and Arabic. Its muscularity allows for rapid movements beneficial for sound production.
The uvula also contains glands that produce thin, watery saliva, which helps keep the throat moist and lubricated, aiding both speaking and swallowing. It plays a role in the gag reflex, acting as a protective mechanism against choking by triggering a gagging sensation if an unwanted object touches the area.
When to Be Concerned
While the uvula is a normal part of anatomy, it can sometimes become inflamed or swollen, a condition known as uvulitis.
Symptoms of uvulitis can include redness, a feeling of something being stuck in the throat, difficulty swallowing, coughing, gagging, excess saliva production, or a sore throat.
Causes for a swollen uvula vary and may include infections (bacterial or viral, like strep throat or the common cold), allergies (to foods, dust, or pollen), dehydration, or irritation from environmental factors like smoking or alcohol consumption. Trauma to the area, such as from frequent vomiting or surgical procedures, can also lead to inflammation.
Most minor irritations are temporary and resolve on their own. However, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. Seek professional help if swelling causes difficulty breathing or swallowing. Other concerning signs include persistent symptoms lasting over five days, a high fever, unmanageable pain, or pus or unusual drainage from the uvula. A chronically enlarged or elongated uvula can also contribute to snoring or obstructive sleep apnea, which may require medical evaluation.