We often hear about the importance of the larynx to carry out vital functions in the body, and it is considered one of the organs of the respiratory system. In this article, we will learn about the most important details, so read the following.

Definition of larynx

The larynx is a cartilaginous organ that connects the pharynx to the trachea, and is located in the neck at the level of the Adam’s apple. It has a prominent role in some vital processes such as breathing and speaking because it contains the vocal cords. It is also called the “voice box.”

The shape, composition and location of the larynx

The larynx is a hollow tube that allows air to pass from the pharynx to the trachea on its way to the lungs. Its size is about 4-5 centimeters, and its size is larger in men than in women, and the greater its size, the deeper the voice becomes.

It is located in the middle of the neck at the level of the Adam’s apple between the fourth and sixth cervical vertebrae. It consists of the following:

• The cartilage responsible for its formation.
• Ligaments that connect cartilage and connect the voice box to surrounding tissues.
• Membranes that also connect cartilage.
• The muscles that move you during swallowing and help with breathing and making sound.

parts of the larynx

According to the sources, in brief, the anatomical description of the larynx includes the following:

• Epiglottis: This tissue covers the opening of this organ to prevent food or other particles from entering the respiratory tract.
• False vocal cords: It is a tissue that closes during swallowing so that food or drink does not enter the trachea and lungs.
• Thyroid cartilage: It is a tissue located in the front and sides, and is also known as the Adam’s apple.
• Vocal cords: Which open and close and vibrate as the air passes through it, which results in sounds and speech.

laryngeal function

This member has three main functions:

1. Protecting the lower respiratory tract, as membranes and cartilage close the openings during swallowing, preventing food and drinks from leaking into the trachea.
2. breathing.
3. Making sounds and speaking.

Throat diseases

There are many acute or chronic diseases that may affect this organ, including:

• Acute laryngitis: Symptoms include sore throat, hoarse voice and sometimes fever.
• Chronic laryngitis: It is inflammation that lasts for more than three weeks and is caused by smoking, allergens or reflux.
• Laryngeal cancer: Treatment requires the removal of part or all of the organ.
• Injuries and trauma: It may be caused by the growth of polyps, bleeding from a ruptured blood vessel near the vocal cords, or excessive vocalizations such as continuous screaming.
• Vocal cord dysfunction: It does not work normally.
• Vocal fold paralysis: When one or both of these cords do not move.

How to keep the voice box healthy

There are many important tips to maintain the health of your throat from possible damage, and here are the most important of them:

• Avoid yelling or whispering, as both of these put pressure on the voice.
• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Limiting medications and chemicals that cause dryness of the vocal cords.
• Try to reduce foods that contain chili, as they cause reflux.
• Stop talking all the time and relax your voice a bit.