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A cross-section view of the human throat
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Laryngoscopic view of interior of larynx
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The is a thin, lid-like flap of
Cartilage tissue covered with a
Mucous Membrane , attached to the root of the
Tongue , that guards the entrance of the
Glottis , the opening between the
Vocal Cords . It is normally pointed upward, but when swallowing, solids or liquids stimulate sensors which folds down the epiglottis, and prevents food that should go into the
Esophagus and
Stomach from passing into the
Trachea (windpipe). The epiglottis is one of three large cartilaginous structures that make up the
Larynx (voice box).
In children, the epiglottis will occasionally become infected with ''
Haemophilus Influenzae '', ''
Staphylococcus Aureus '', or ''
Streptococcus Pneumoniae '' bacteria. Although easily treated, this condition is a medical emergency because without treatment the epiglottis may swell and block the trachea, causing
Asphyxia and death. This condition has become rare in countries where
Vaccination against ''Hemophilus influenzae'' (HIB) is routine.
