
What Is the Epiglottis? Function & Anatomy - Cleveland Clinic
Sep 6, 2022 · Your epiglottis is a small, leaf-shaped sheet of elastic cartilage that protects your larynx (voice box) and helps you swallow. Your larynx is a hollow tube that helps move air …
Epiglottitis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
Nov 11, 2022 · 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.
Epiglottis - Wikipedia
The epiglottis (pl.: epiglottises or epiglottides) is a leaf-shaped flap in the throat that prevents food and water from entering the trachea and the lungs. It stays open during breathing, allowing air …
Epiglottitis - Boston Children's Hospital
Epiglottitis is a life-threatening bacterial infection that occurs when the epiglottis — a small piece of cartilage that covers the windpipe — swells, obstructing the flow of air into your child's …
Epiglottis: Structure, function, epiglottitis | Kenhub
Nov 3, 2023 · The epiglottis is a cartilaginous flap that extends in front and above the laryngeal inlet, or more specifically the rima glottidis (glottis). The function of the epiglottis is to close the …
Epiglottis - Structure, Function, Diagram, Anatomy, Location
The epiglottis is a thin, leaf-shaped flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue. It is covered with a mucous membrane and plays a critical role in separating the respiratory and digestive …
What Is the Function of the Epiglottis? - Medicover Hospitals
Oct 4, 2024 · The epiglottis, a leaf-shaped flap in the throat, plays a crucial role in the respiratory and digestive systems. Despite its small size, its function is vital for ensuring that air enters the …
Epiglottitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment - WebMD
Oct 30, 2024 · Your epiglottis is a piece of cartilage at the base of your tongue. It flaps down when you swallow, to keep food and liquid from entering your windpipe. It can become inflamed and …
The Epiglottis: Its Anatomy and Primary Function
Jul 26, 2025 · The epiglottis, a small, leaf-shaped structure nestled within the throat, plays a fundamental role in protecting the body during everyday actions like eating and drinking. This …
Epiglottitis - Harvard Health
Jul 22, 2025 · The epiglottis is the flap of tissue located just above the windpipe (trachea) that directs the flow of air and food in the throat. When we breathe, the epiglottis moves to allow air …