Svelgebevegelse

Svelgebevegelse, also known as deglutition, is a complex physiological process involving the coordinated action of muscles in the mouth, pharynx, and esophagus to move food or liquid from the oral cavity to the stomach. This process can be divided into three distinct phases: the oral phase, the pharyngeal phase, and the esophageal phase.

The oral phase is voluntary. It begins with mastication, where food is chewed and mixed with saliva to form a bolus. The tongue then propels the bolus towards the pharynx.

The pharyngeal phase is largely involuntary and rapid. The soft palate elevates to close off the nasal cavity, preventing food from entering the nose. The epiglottis covers the opening of the larynx, directing the bolus into the esophagus. Respiration is temporarily inhibited during this phase.

The esophageal phase is also involuntary. Once the bolus enters the esophagus, muscular contractions called peristalsis propel it downwards towards the stomach. The lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow the bolus to pass into the stomach and then closes to prevent reflux.

Disruptions to any of these phases can lead to dysphagia, a difficulty in swallowing. Dysphagia can have various causes, including neurological disorders, structural abnormalities, or age-related changes. It can result in nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia if food or liquid enters the airway. Specialized medical evaluations are used to diagnose and manage swallowing disorders.