Premium Nahrungsergänzungsmittel | artgerecht

Larynx: Anatomy, Function & Common Conditions

The larynx, commonly known as the voice box, is an organ in the throat that enables speech and protects the lower airways from food and liquids entering.

Regular tips about health Regular tips about health

Things worth knowing about "Larynx"

The larynx, commonly known as the voice box, is an organ in the throat that enables speech and protects the lower airways from food and liquids entering.

What is the Larynx?

The larynx, commonly referred to as the voice box, is a complex organ located in the front of the neck. It connects the throat (pharynx) to the windpipe (trachea) and serves three essential functions: voice production, airway protection, and regulation of airflow. The larynx is composed of a framework of cartilages, muscles, and mucous membranes, and is easily palpable in adults, particularly in men.

Anatomy of the Larynx

The larynx consists of several cartilages connected by ligaments and muscles:

Thyroid cartilage: The largest cartilage of the larynx, forming the visible prominence in the neck known as the Adam's apple.
Cricoid cartilage: A ring-shaped cartilage forming the base of the larynx and connecting it to the trachea.
Arytenoid cartilages: Two small cartilages responsible for controlling the movement of the vocal cords.
Epiglottis: A leaf-shaped flap of cartilage that folds over the laryngeal inlet during swallowing, preventing food and liquids from entering the airway.

Functions of the Larynx

Voice Production

Inside the larynx are the vocal cords (vocal folds), which are tensed by surrounding muscles during speaking or singing. Exhaled air causes the vocal cords to vibrate, producing sound. The pitch and volume of the voice are controlled by adjusting the tension and position of the vocal cords.

Airway Protection

During swallowing, the epiglottis folds down over the entrance of the larynx, sealing it. The entire larynx also elevates, further protecting the airway from aspiration of food or liquids into the lungs.

Breathing Regulation

The glottis, the gap between the vocal cords, opens and closes rhythmically during breathing. It is wide open during inhalation and slightly narrows during exhalation. This mechanism also plays an important role during coughing and physical exertion.

Common Conditions Affecting the Larynx

Laryngitis: Inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa, commonly caused by viral infections or vocal strain. Typical symptoms include hoarseness, sore throat, and a dry cough.
Laryngeal cancer (larynx carcinoma): A malignant tumor of the larynx, strongly associated with chronic tobacco use and alcohol consumption. Early signs include persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath.
Laryngospasm: A sudden, involuntary spasm of the laryngeal muscles, which can cause brief episodes of breathing difficulty.
Vocal cord nodules: Small benign growths on the vocal cords caused by chronic vocal overuse, commonly seen in singers and teachers.
Croup syndrome: A common respiratory condition in young children caused by inflammation and swelling around the larynx, resulting in a characteristic barking cough.

Diagnosis of Laryngeal Conditions

The primary diagnostic tool for evaluating the larynx is laryngoscopy, a procedure in which a flexible or rigid endoscope is used to visually inspect the mucosa, vocal cords, and movement of laryngeal structures. Complementary imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used for more detailed assessment.

Treatment of Laryngeal Conditions

Treatment depends on the specific condition:

For laryngitis, the main approach includes voice rest, adequate hydration, and antibiotics if a bacterial cause is confirmed.
Laryngeal cancer is treated depending on the stage with surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, often in combination.
Vocal cord nodules can be addressed through voice therapy (speech therapy) or, if necessary, surgical removal.
An acute laryngospasm is managed with calming measures and, in severe cases, medical intervention.

References

Drake, R.L.; Vogl, A.W.; Mitchell, A.W.M. (2019): Gray's Anatomy for Students. 4th Edition. Elsevier, Philadelphia.
Flint, P.W. et al. (2020): Cummings Otolaryngology: Head and Neck Surgery. 7th Edition. Elsevier, Philadelphia.
World Health Organization (WHO): Head and Neck Cancer. Available at: https://www.who.int (accessed 2024).

Building Blocks for a Healthy Life

As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.