What keeps food from entering your trachea?

Answer 1

Swallowing is a complex mechanism in which many different things happen. Firstly as food is moved by the touch to the back of the oral cavity the soft palate closes off the nasal cavity (so no food can get back up your nose). Secondly, the epiglottis which normally hangs open above the glottis (first part of the trachea) is closed by a cranial movement of the glotis. This causes the trachea to be closed off and the food to be diverted into the oesophagus. This also explains why people cant swallow and breath at the same time. Interestingly though, due to anatomical differences babies are able to drink and swallow at the same time.

Answer 2

The epiglottis is a tiny flap that switches between protecting the trachea and protecting the esophagus. While eating, the epiglottis blocks the trachea, so we don't swallow food where we breath. That's why parents tell their kids not to talk with their mouth full; it's sending mixed messages to the epiglottis, and food may be able to slip into the trachea.

Answer 3

Epiglottis

The epiglottis closes over the glottis which is the opening to your trachea. This occurs when food enters the pharynx and initiates the swallowing reflex.

Answer 4

The thin muscular flap that keeps food from entering the trachea is the Epiglottis.

Answer 5

Don't swallow

Answer 6

epiglottis