A small fleshy lobe hanging from the back of the soft palate that helps with swallowing and speech.
Structure
The uvula is a teardrop-shaped projection of mucosa containing small glands, muscle fibers of the uvular muscle, and connective tissue.
Function
During swallowing, the soft palate and uvula rise to seal off the nasopharynx, preventing food and liquid from entering the nose. They also help produce certain consonants, especially the uvular sounds present in some languages.
Clinical note
Inflammation of the uvula, called uvulitis, can cause swelling and choking sensations. Elective surgical shortening is sometimes performed to treat severe snoring.
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Uvula starts with U and ends with A. Browse other body parts along the same letter.
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