Deglutition meaning

Deglutition is the process of swallowing, where food and liquids are swallowed from the mouth to the esophagus.


Deglutition definitions

Word backwards noititulged
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division de-glu-ti-tion
Plural The plural of deglutition is deglutitions.
Total letters 11
Vogais (4) e,u,i,o
Consonants (5) d,g,l,t,n

Understanding Deglutition

The Process of Swallowing

Deglutition, commonly known as swallowing, is a complex process that allows us to move food and liquids from our mouths to our stomachs. This process involves a series of coordinated muscle movements that ensure the safe passage of food through the esophagus.

The Three Phases of Deglutition

There are three primary phases of deglutition: the oral phase, the pharyngeal phase, and the esophageal phase. During the oral phase, food is chewed, mixed with saliva, and formed into a bolus that can be easily swallowed. The pharyngeal phase involves the initiation of swallowing, which is an involuntary reflex that prevents food from entering the airway. Finally, the esophageal phase consists of the passage of the food bolus through the esophagus and into the stomach.

The Importance of Deglutition

Deglutition is essential for proper nutrition and overall health. Without the ability to swallow effectively, individuals may experience difficulty eating and drinking, leading to malnutrition and dehydration. Impaired deglutition can also increase the risk of aspiration, which occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus.

Disorders of Deglutition

Several conditions can affect deglutition, including dysphagia, a swallowing disorder that can result from various medical conditions such as stroke, neurological disorders, or cancer. Individuals with dysphagia may experience difficulty swallowing, coughing during meals, or a sensation of food sticking in the throat. Treatment for dysphagia often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including speech therapy, dietary modifications, and swallowing exercises.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deglutition is a vital physiological process that allows us to consume and digest food safely. Understanding the phases of swallowing and the potential disorders that can affect this process is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty with swallowing, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to address any underlying issues and improve quality of life.


Deglutition Examples

  1. The process of deglutition is essential for swallowing food.
  2. Improper deglutition can lead to choking or aspiration.
  3. She studied the anatomy of deglutition in her medical school class.
  4. The patient's speech therapist worked on improving his deglutition function.
  5. During the video fluoroscopic swallow study, the radiologist observed the deglutition process.
  6. The neurologist diagnosed the patient with dysphagia, a condition affecting deglutition.
  7. Dysphagia can impact a person's ability to safely perform deglutition.
  8. The otolaryngologist specializes in disorders of the throat, including those affecting deglutition.
  9. A speech-language pathologist can work with patients to improve their deglutition skills.
  10. The nurse closely monitored the patient's deglutition function post-surgery.


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  • Updated 06/04/2024 - 04:26:56