What is the larynx?
The larynx is the connecting piece between the pharynx and the trachea. It consists of four cartilage parts:
- Thyroid cartilage: the anterior, palpable wall; visible in men as the “Adam’s apple” on the outside of the neck;
- Cricoid cartilage: lies horizontally below the thyroid cartilage;
- Epiglottis: Is connected to the thyroid cartilage and closes the entrance of the larynx to the pharynx – so food cannot enter the trachea when swallowing.
- Articular cartilage: Connected to the cricoid cartilage by a joint;
Inside the larynx, about in the middle, are the vocal cords or vocal folds, which are necessary for speaking.
What is the function of the larynx?
The main function of the larynx is the reflex closure of the airway. This vital function prevents foreign bodies from entering the lungs. In addition, the larynx is lined internally with a mucosa that has a ciliated epithelium. Through constant movement of the cilia, particles inhaled with the air are transported back up so that they can be coughed up.
Where is the larynx located?
The larynx is located below the hyoid bone in the middle region of the neck, where it can be seen as a protrusion on the neck – especially in men. When swallowing, it moves and is pulled forward and upward, closing the trachea. If this mechanism does not work, for example when speaking and swallowing at the same time, one “swallows”: saliva; drinks or food then enters the windpipe.
In infants, on the other hand, the larynx is higher in the throat, making simultaneous breathing and drinking possible.
What problems can the larynx cause?
In the course of a flu-like infection caused by viruses, the larynx can become inflamed (laryngitis), which manifests itself primarily in hoarseness. Those affected often suffer from a cold (rhinitis) and an inflammation of the throat (pharyngitis) at the same time. Non-inflammatory irritation caused by dry, smoky air can also cause inflammation. Chronic inflammation can develop with heavy alcohol and nicotine use, dusty and dry air.
Pseudocroup is a swelling of the soft tissues below the vocal folds triggered by viruses. It develops especially in children in whom the larynx is still very narrow.
Anyone who suffers from hoarseness for longer than three to four weeks should see an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist. It is possible that a malignant tumor on the larynx (laryngeal cancer) is behind it.
Author & source information
This text corresponds to the specifications of the medical literature, medical guidelines and current studies and has been reviewed by medical experts.
