Associated symptoms
The uvula is located in the middle of the soft palate. In the case of sore throats, this uvula is often swollen. In addition to viral infections, an allergic reaction or irritation of the uvula mucosa (e.g. burning from a hot drink or soup) can also lead to swelling of the uvula.
Other causes are tonsillitis, chickenpox, diphtheria and measles. Those affected suffer from swallowing difficulties due to the swelling and feel an unpleasant tightness in the throat. Often speaking, eating and drinking also cause great problems.
Structure and function of the palate
The palate represents the roof of the mouth and is the spatial boundary between the mouth and throat area and the base of the skull. It is an area covered with taut muscles, nerves, blood vessels and skin that is very sensitive to pain, heat and cold. It plays an important role in the swallowing function, as it acts as an abutment for the tongue to transport chewed-up food down the esophagus. Furthermore, the palate plays an important role in the speech process, because during syllable formation the tongue always approaches the palate at regular intervals and pushes itself off.
