ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The epiglottis is a small, movable “lid” just above the larynx that prevents food and drink from entering the windpipe. Swelling of the epiglottis can completely block the airway. This can lead to breathing or respiratory failure. In this life-threatening condition, the level of oxygen in the blood drops very low.

Detailed explanation-2: -If the epiglottis is absent in the body then the regulation of food material to esophagus and air into the lungs will get disturbed. Sometimes food will enter into the windpipe and then causes choking. Eventually, the lungs cannot not work properly which can lead to death.

Detailed explanation-3: -Epiglottitis is an inflammatory condition of the epiglottis and/or nearby structures including the arytenoids, aryepiglottic folds, and vallecula. Epiglottitis is a life-threatening infection that causes profound swelling of the upper airways which can lead to asphyxia and respiratory arrest.

Detailed explanation-4: -When you swallow, a flap called the epiglottis moves to block the entrance of food particles into your larynx and lungs. The muscles of the larynx pull upward to assist with this movement. They also tightly close during swallowing. That prevents food from entering your lungs.

Detailed explanation-5: -Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the epiglottis that can result from an infection or other cause, such as physical trauma. A severely swollen epiglottis can block the airway, causing severe breathing difficulties. It can be fatal.