3. Swallowing

Question 1

What are the 3 parts to swallowing?

Answer 1

Oral
Pharyngeal
Oesophageal

Question 2

What are the stages in oral swallowing?

Answer 2

Preparing the bolus

Move bolus to oropharynx

Question 3

What are the stages in pharyngeal swallowing?

Answer 3

Soft palate elevates - protects nasopharynx
Pharyngeal constrictors move bolus downwards
Larynx elevates - closing epiglottis
Vocal cords adduct
Relaxation of upper oesophageal sphincter

Question 4

What are the stages of oesophageal swallowing?

Answer 4

Upper oesophageal sphincter closes

Rapid peristalsis in oesophagus

Question 5

What is dysphagia?

Answer 5

Difficulty swallowing

Question 6

What are the problems coordinating swallowing?

Answer 6

Ineffective swallow - dribbling

Material entering respiratory tract - coughing, choking

Question 7

What can cause dysphagia?

Answer 7

Cerebrovascular accident
Parkinson’s disease
Multiple sclerosis

Question 8

What can cause blockage to passage of food causing dysphagia?

Answer 8

Fibrous rings
Oesophageal cancer
Achalasia - failure of LOS to relax