Kerongkongan

Kerongkongan is the Indonesian term for the throat, referring to the region at the back of the mouth and nose that serves as a passage for air and food. In everyday usage it denotes the throat area and is often associated with the pharynx and nearby structures involved in swallowing and voice production. In medical contexts, more formal terms such as faring (pharynx) are used, but kerongkongan remains a common colloquial name.

Anatomically, the pharynx is a muscular tube divided into three parts: the nasopharynx behind the nasal cavity, the oropharynx behind the oral cavity, and the laryngopharynx above the larynx. The larynx, or voice box, lies anterior to the pharynx and is connected to the upper esophagus, which continues the digestive tract. During swallowing, the epiglottis closes the opening to the larynx to prevent food from entering the airway, while coordinated muscle contractions move the bolus toward the esophagus.

Functions of the kerongkongan include routing air to the lungs, directing food and liquid to the esophagus, and contributing to speech and vocalization through the larynx. It also participates in protective reflexes such as coughing and the gag reflex.

Common conditions affecting the kerongkongan include sore throat (sakit tenggorokan), pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, and gastroesophageal reflux that can irritate the throat. Most throat problems are viral; bacterial infections may require medical treatment. Maintaining hydration, avoiding irritants, and seeking medical advice for persistent or severe symptoms are recommended.