ANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The flap that covers the trachea during swallowing so that food does not enter the lungs. Anatomy of the larynx. The three parts of the larynx are the supraglottis (including the epiglottis), the glottis (including the vocal cords), and the subglottis.

Detailed explanation-2: -A small flap of tissue called the epiglottis (eh-pih-GLAH-tus) protects the larynx. When we swallow, the epiglottis covers the larynx to prevent food and liquid from going into the lungs. The trachea (windpipe) is the part of the airway that continues below the larynx (LAIR-inks).

Detailed explanation-3: -When a person swallows the epiglottis folds backward to cover the entrance of the larynx so food and liquid do not enter the windpipe and lungs. After swallowing the epiglottis returns to its original upright position.

Detailed explanation-4: -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.