deglutatsioon

Deglutition, also known as swallowing, is a complex process involving the coordinated movement of muscles and nerves to move food from the mouth to the stomach. It begins with the voluntary action of chewing and the placement of food into the mouth. The food is then pushed backward by the tongue and soft palate, and down the pharynx by the epiglottis, which closes to prevent food from entering the trachea. The bolus of food then moves into the esophagus, where peristaltic waves of muscle contractions propel it downward. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxes to allow the bolus to pass into the stomach, and then quickly closes to prevent acid reflux. Deglutition is regulated by the swallowing center in the brainstem, which sends signals to the muscles involved in the process. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can occur due to various conditions such as stroke, neurological disorders, or structural abnormalities. Proper deglutition is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and overall well-being.